American ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius ) though uncommon in most of the U.S., is a wild growing plant that is found in certain areas of Alabama.  Harvesting of this   plant is regulated due to unchecked collecting because of a strong overseas demand and high prices on the overseas market.  American ginseng is considered a threatened plant species and therefore is regulated by the State of Alabama.  To legally collect ginseng in Alabama, collectors must obtain a permit to harvest wild ginseng from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.  To purchase and sell/export ginseng, parties must obtain a dealers permit to be able to legally do so. These permits must be renewed annually in order to continue to legally collect and export ginseng.  Ginseng can only be collected between September 1^st and December 31^st and sold/exported between September 15^th and March 31^st.

Permits registration is between July 1^st and December 15^th of each calendar year.

For a complete listing of the codes and regulations regarding harvesting ginseng and the selling/exporting of ginseng, see the links below.