In light of Mexico’s upcoming Day of the Dead celebrations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is reminding travelers that several traditional plants and agricultural products are strictly prohibited from crossing into the United States.
In an official statement, agency officials highlighted that several decorative items routinely placed on ofrendas (altars) pose significant agricultural risks.
One of them is orange jessamine (murraya), commonly known as jazminera. While popular for its aesthetic appeal on altars, the ornamental plant is a known host for a devastating invasive insect.
Keep Reading: Tijuana Prepares Special Operation Across City Cemeteries for Day of the Dead
Restricted Flowers
The primary concern surrounding murraya is the Asian citrus psyllid, an insect capable of spreading huanglongbing (HLB), or citrus greening disease.
Considered one of the world’s most destructive citrus ailments, the incurable condition was first detected in Florida in 2005 and causes irreversible damage to almost all citrus varieties and related ornamental plants.
Border officials clarified that marigolds (cempasúchil), the iconic orange and yellow flowers essential to Day of the Dead traditions, are permitted into the U.S., but only as fresh cut flowers.
Marigolds intended for planting and propagation remain strictly banned.
Related: Day of the Dead in Baja California: Weekend Events & Celebrations
Prohibited Fruits and Vegetables
CBP also reinforced its ongoing restrictions on a wide range of fresh produce brought from Mexico. Prohibited fruits include: oranges, sour oranges, mandarins, grapefruits, sweet limes, guavas, mangoes, peaches, and pomegranates.
Additionally, live tomato and pepper plants are barred from entry due to the risk of transmitting tomato brown rugose fruit virus, a pathogen capable of severely impacting domestic crop yields.
Travelers who attempt to cross with restricted agricultural goods without declaring them face fines starting at $500 for undeclared personal items and can reach up to $250,000 for commercial-scale violations.
Customs officials advise all travelers to declare every food, plant, and agricultural item upon arrival regardless of quantity.
When in doubt, travelers can check official guidelines on the CBP web pages “Bringing Food into the U.S.” and “Can I Bring It?” before traveling.
