1211.90.89 - Fresh or dried

This HTS category, 1211.90.89, encompasses a broad range of miscellaneous plant materials, specifically those that are fresh or dried, and are not otherwise specified under more refined subheadings within the 1211 chapter. These products are generally of a kind used in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal, fungicidal, or similar purposes. The "fresh or dried" qualifier is crucial, distinguishing these items from those preserved through chilling or freezing.

Distinguishing this category from its sibling, 1211.90.93.00, is the method of preservation. While 1211.90.93.00 exclusively covers plant materials that are chilled or frozen, this category, 1211.90.89, pertains to those that are fresh (meaning recently harvested and unfrozen) or have undergone drying. This distinction is fundamental for customs assessment, as different preservation methods can impact shelf-life, usability, and market value.

Within this broad classification, further subdivisions exist to provide more granular categorization. Notably, this category includes specific subheadings for plant materials possessing anesthetic, prophylactic, or therapeutic properties, primarily intended for use as medicaments or as ingredients in medicaments. Additionally, it encompasses specific entries for popular culinary herbs like Basil (1211.90.89.40) and Sage (1211.90.89.50), recognizing their significant commercial and medicinal uses. The remaining "Other" subcategories capture the diverse array of plant materials fitting the general description but not specifically enumerated elsewhere.