Live Roses, Grafted or Not

Live rose plants with roots — grafted or own-rooted — are classified under heading 0602.40, while fresh-cut roses and buds for the floral trade fall under heading 0603.11. The distinction turns on whether the plant retains its root system and is intended for growing on, versus being a harvested stem for decorative use. Misclassification between these headings is a common error in floral trade entries.

For grafted roses, APHIS may require the phytosanitary certificate to identify both the scion variety and the rootstock species, since each component carries independent pest-risk status. Some rootstock species are subject to specific import conditions or may be restricted from certain origins. Consult a licensed customs broker or APHIS before importing grafted rose plants.