ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To establish a quality classification standard for Aucklandia lappa.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>Seed purity, 1 000-grain weight, germination rate, water content of 37 seed samples from different areas were measured, and seed external characters were observed. The cluster analysis was applied for establishment of the primary quality classification standard of A. lappa seed.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>The seed quality grading of A. lappa was described as three grades. The seed quality of each grade should reach following requirements: for first grade seeds, seed germination rate > or = 85%, purity > or = 99%, 1 000-grain weight > or = 26.0 g, water content < or = 8.8%; for second grade seeds, seed germination rate > or = 70%, purity > or = 98%, 1 000-grain weight > or = 23.8 g, water content < or = 10%; for third grade seeds, seed germination rate > or = 50%, purity > or = 96%, 1 000-grain weight > or = 23.0 g, water content < or = 11%.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>This quality classification standard of A. lappa can be used as the quality control standard of A. lappa.</p>