September 8, 2000
Photo courtesy of "Bloomz"
The Environmental Risk Management Authority has cleared up the issue over what species of Zantedeschia (calla or arum lilies) are or are not in New Zealand. Only five of the eight species of the genus Zantedeschia have been officially listed on the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry's biosecurity index, but horticulturalists claimed that all eight species have been in New Zealand for many years.
Following an application from the Bloomz company and with supporting data from other independent technical experts, the Authority has accepted the view that the other three species (Z. jucunda, Z. odorta and Z.valida) have been present in New Zealand since immediately prior to the commencement of the HSNO Act in July 1998 and thus qualify to be added to the official list. This means that the three species concerned are not regarded as new organisms and therefore will not require an approval as a new organism.
The Zantedeschia species originates from southern Africa and have been imported into New Zealand since the early 1900's. From these original imports, a range of hybrids have been produced over the years and this has formed the basis of a $10 million dollar export industry for cut flowers and bulbs. The calla lilies come in a variety of bright colours are very popular with home gardeners as well as the commercial growers.
In its decision the Authority said that on the basis of the investigations carried out by the commercial flower growers and scientists, in all probability all eight known species of Zantedeschia are in New Zealand. By accepting this position ERMA New Zealand has cleared up any ambiguity about these plants and will make it easier for the industry to import calla lily hybrids into New Zealand in the future.
The Chief Executive of ERMA New Zealand Dr Bas Walker says the decision by Authority was to clear up an anomaly in the system and to recognise the reality of a situation that has existed for possibly many years. He says the Authority has taken a pragmatic approach to what could have been a difficult situation and recognised that the commercial flower growing industry is a responsible group that is working within the law. He says the outcome is good for everyone involved
For further information contact:
|
Bas Walker |
Peter Burke |