U.S. closes border to Canadian exports of boxwood, euonymus and holly

 Plants with box tree moths were possibly imported on nursery plants shipped from Canada

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the presence of box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis, in the continental United States and is taking action to contain and eradicate the invasive pest that was possibly imported on nursery plants shipped from Canada.

All Canadian exports and re-exports of boxwood (Buxus spp.), Euonymus (Euonymus spp.) and holly (Ilex spp.) plants for planting are prohibited entry into the United States from Canada. This includes all propagative plant material from all origins, except for seed.

The box tree moth can significantly damage and potentially kill boxwood plants if left unchecked.

On May 26, 2021, APHIS issued a Federal Order to halt the importation of host plants from Canada, including boxwood (Buxus species), Euonymus (Euonymus species), and holly (Ilex species).

Link: USDA Confirms Box Tree Moth and Takes Action to Contain and Eradicate the Pest