ClassExplained

Dahlias are sorted into what we call classifications. We use an abbreviation that tells us what size the
flower is and tells us the formation of the flower petals(ray florets). An example would be BB FD R.
Translated that means a flower that is between 4-6" in diameter and the flower petals are in a “formal
decorative” formation(regularly formed and somewhat flat) and the flower is red. An AA ID Y would mean a
flower over 10 inches in diameter, with petals that are not as orderly as a formal decorative and the color is
yellow.

More information on the classification system can be accessed at the American Dahlia Society web site:

http://www.dahlia.org/guide/

Classification
BLOOM SIZE (flower diameter):
AA         10 inches or over
A         8 to 10 inches
B         6 to 8 inches
BB         4 to 6 inches
M         up to 4 inches
BA         over 3.5 inches
MB         over 2 to 3.5 inches
P         up to 2 inches

BLOOM TYPE:
AN         Anemone
BA         Ball
C         Straight Cactus
CO         Collarette
FD         Formal Decorative
IC         Incurved Cactus
ID         Informal Decorative
LC         Laciniated (split petals)
MB         Miniature Ball
MS         Mignon Single
NO         Novelty-Open Center
NX         Novelty-Double Center
O         Orchid
P         Pompon
PE         Peony
S         Single
SC         Semi-Cactus
ST         Stellar
WL         Water Lily

COLOR CODES:
BI         Bi-color
BR         Bronze
DB         Dark Blend
DP         Dark Pink
DR         Dark Red
FL         Flame
L         Lavender
LB         Light Blend
OR         Orange
P         Pink
PR         Purple
R         Red
V         Variegated
W         White
Y         Yellow