As an appendix 2 CITES species, American ginseng is not currently threatened with extinction, but warrants special protection because the harvest of the desirable portion of the plant (the roots) destroys the plant. Regulations have been put in place to ensure the survival of future generations of American ginseng.

What is the difference between wild ginseng and cultivated ginseng?

Cultivated ginseng means any part of a ginseng plant that was planted and grown in prepared beds.

Wild ginseng means ginseng that was not planted and is growing, living or found in a natural state.

What is the licensing process?

Two types of ginseng license are available, a ginseng growers license and a ginseng dealers license. To apply for either license an application must be completed and submitted to the Department. A site visit is required for those applying for a ginseng growers license to ensure that the site is free of wild ginseng and to help the grower determine the best place for planting.

Who needs a ginseng growers license?

Persons cultivating and growing ginseng for sale to out of state markets must apply for a growers license.

What is the fee for a ginseng growers license?

Ginseng growers license fees are $10. Licenses expire on December 31 of each year and must be renewed annually.

Who needs a ginseng dealers license?

Persons buying cultivated or wild ginseng for resale must have a dealers license.

What is the fee for a ginseng dealers license?

Ginseng dealers license fees are $25. Licenses expire on December 31 of each year and must be renewed annually.

How is my harvested cultivated ginseng certified for sale?

When ready for export the Department weighs the harvested cultivated ginseng and issues an origin certificate. The origin certificate must accompany the shipment to its final sale.

Can harvested wild ginseng be certified for sale?

The state only certifies cultivated ginseng and does not certify wild harvested ginseng. Harvest of wild ginseng is discouraged because naturally occuring populations in Maine are not large or vigorous enough to sustain harvesting.

Where can I find more information about growing ginseng?

Ginseng growers face many challenges including the length of time it can take to produce a harvestable crop, damage from slugs and deer and a lack of readily available information on growing and producing ginseng. In order to assist growers we've compiled a list of resources that may be useful in growing a succesful crop More Information about ginseng

Who should I contact with questions about the ginseng certification program?

Contact the horticulture program at (207)287-3891 or email Horticulture with any questions regarding licensing, growing and selling ginseng.

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Ginseng Certification Program

What is the purpose of the ginseng program?

What is the Convention for International Trade of Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES)?

Why is American ginseng a CITES protected plant?