Most plants and plant products will have a preferred scientific name for import into GB. Some plants may have a synonym which is commonly used or isn't the preferred scientific name.
IPAFFS, where possible, uses the preferred scientific name as described on the European Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO) website. IPAFFS will be continually updated as and when new information become available from the EPPO website.
How do I find out if my plant is a synonym?
If you can not locate the genus or species of a plant you are importing, when making an IPAFFS notification it may be a synonym, to find the correct name, please refer to the attached spreadsheet below.
If your genus or species is not listed as a synonym and you are unable to find your genus or species in the IPAFFS commodity code spreadsheet please contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency who will be able to instruct you on next steps to declare your genus or species on IPAFFS. APHA's helpdesk can be contacted via the following:
In England and Wales: telephone 0300 1000 313 or email phsi-importers@apha.gov.uk
If emailing, please include:
- any relevant reference numbers (PEACH/CHEDPP, tracking or airway bill number)
- your telephone number
- your business name and address (including full postcode)
- the nature of your business
- the type of enquiry you want to make in the subject line
- details regarding the commodity you are interested in, importing, where from, how and for what purpose
In Scotland: visit the SASA (Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture) website.