12092300
OIL SEEDS AND OLEAGINOUS FRUITS; MISCELLANEOUS GRAINS, SEEDS AND FRUIT; INDUSTRIAL OR MEDICINAL PLANTS; STRAW AND FODDER›Seeds, fruit and spores, of a kind used for sowing
Fescue seeds
Subcodes (3)
Classification of fescue seed
CN code 120923 covers fescue (Festuca spp.) seed for sowing. Fescue is an important forage and turf grass in temperate climates. Commonly imported species include meadow fescue (F. pratensis), red fescue (F. rubra), and tall fescue (F. arundinacea). Fescue seeds are used for establishing meadows, pastures, sports turf, and ornamental lawns. Classification applies to sowing seed confirmed by trade documentation. Major exporters include the USA, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Baltic countries.
Phytosanitary and quality requirements
Fescue seed imports are subject to phytosanitary requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 and quality requirements of Directive 66/401/EEC. An ISTA certificate confirms quality parameters. Seeds must be free from quarantine organisms, particularly endophytic fungi that may affect agronomic properties. Endophyte content requirements may vary between countries.
Trade and import
Importers should indicate CN code 120923 with phytosanitary and quality documentation. Tariff preferences may be available depending on country of origin. Transport requires dry conditions. In 2026, demand for drought-resistant fescue varieties is growing with climate change.
Fescue seeds on the European market
Fescue seeds for sowing under CN 1209 23 cover Festuca species - meadow fescue, red fescue and sheep fescue. Used mainly for establishing lawns, pastures and sports pitches. Imports are governed by Seed Directive 66/401/EEC with purity requirements (min 95%) and germination capacity (min 75%). Main suppliers are Denmark, Netherlands and USA. Seeds must be free from invasive species and quarantine organisms. The European market requires OECD certification for international grass seed trade.
Frequently asked questions
What fescue species does code 120923 cover?
The code covers all Festuca species for sowing, including meadow, red, and tall fescue. Each species has specific applications from forage meadows to ornamental lawns.
Do fescue seeds require endophyte testing?
Endophyte testing is not a mandatory EU import requirement, but buyers may require endophyte status information as it affects agronomic properties and animal health.
Where does most fescue seed imported into the EU originate?
Major exporters are the USA and Denmark. Denmark is the largest European grass seed producer. US imports may benefit from tariff preferences.
What are fescue seeds CN 1209 23 used for?
Fescue seeds CN 1209 23 are used for establishing lawns, pastures and sports pitches. Festuca species are valued for drought tolerance and low fertiliser requirements.
Useful tools & resources
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