An Explanation of the North American Gladiolus Council’s Size & Color Classifications
3 digit system: 1st digit= floret size, next 2 digits= color
Floret size Classification
100 (Miniature): Florets under 2.5″
200 (Small): Florets 2.5″ – 3.5″
300 (Medium): Florets 3.5″ – 4.5″
400 (Large): Florets 4.5″ – 5.5″
500 (Giant): Florets 5.5″ – or larger
Color Classification
Floret size Classification
100 (Miniature): Florets under 2.5″
200 (Small): Florets 2.5″ – 3.5″
300 (Medium): Florets 3.5″ – 4.5″
400 (Large): Florets 4.5″ – 5.5″
500 (Giant): Florets 5.5″ – or larger
Color Classification
*Two Digit Classification Numbers Above ending in even numbers- 0,2,4,6 and 8 indicate a near or completely solid color with no other colored markings. However, inconspicuous, small markings of any other color are accepted anywhere on the florets, i.e.1/2” by1/2” small markings on throats and centers- blotches, snips, brush marks, spears, etc.
*Two Digit Classification Numbers Above ending in odd numbers-1,3,5,7 and 9 indicate obvious, conspicuous markings to the human eye with any of a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Bi and Tri colored florets are common with a variety of colored blotches, throats, splashes, darts, veining, and various other markings.
Fragrant varieties will be the number followed by F Such as 345 F
Blooming Season
VE (Very Early): under 70 days
E (Early): 70-74 days
EM (Early Midseason): 75-79 days
M (Midseason): 80-84 days
LM (Late Midseason): 85-90 days
L (Late): 91-99 days
VL (Very Late): 100 days or more
Sample on how to read code:
Example
STARRY NIGHT (Madson 02) 487 M (AA)
Madson is the originator
02 is the year it was introduced
487 – first digit designates floret size – last two digits designate color
M – is the blooming season for large bulbs, medium and
small bulbs bloom slightly later
AA – All-America Gladiolus Selection(trials winners prior to 2009)
AAS - All America Select (current trial garden evaluation)
(AAS replaced the AA trials starting in 2009)
Size of bulbs
Jumbo (J): 1 3/4″ and up
Large (L): 1 1/4″ – 1 3/4″
Medium (M): 3/4″ – 1 1/4″
Small (S): 1/4″ – 3/4″
(L or M) and (Large and Medium) This size includes large and medium bulbs for the same price. Your order will be filled from this range, first come. 1 = 1 bulb