Judging

Basics of Honolulu Orchid Society Judging Awards and Definitions

Three awards (FCC, AM and CR) focus primarily on flower quality. These are called Merit Awards and are judged on the best flowers on a plant either a single flower or single inflorescence. Other awards are based on the entire plant with flowers. CCM recognizes the grower for excellence in orchid culture. CDC is to recognize distinctive or unique traits. AQ is for improvement over an original orchid in a group of 12 plants.

First Class Certificate (FCC)

Awarded to any orchid receiving an average of 89.6 or more points given by the judges participating.

Award of Merit (AM)

Awarded to any orchid receiving an average of 79.6 to 89.5 points given by the judges participating.

Certificate of Recognition (CR)

Awarded to any orchid receiving an average of 76.6 points to 79.5 points given by the judges participating.

Certificate of Cultural Merit (CCM)

For excellence in growing the entire plant including all the flowers, canes, pseudobulbs and leaves. It is an award to recognize the grower for their work.
Plants must receive an average score of at least 79.6 points.

Certificate of Distinctive Character (CDC)

Awarded for an orchid with unique or distinctive qualities, is desirable, and may offer commercial utility or practicality value. Plants must receive an average score of at least 79.6 points.

Award of Quality (AQ)

Awarded to a species or hybrid orchid of a single owner one time when exhibited as a group of not less than 12 plants when the result is of sufficient improvement over the former type. It is granted by unanimous vote of the judges without scoring. Both hybridizer and exhibitor received a certificate.

Scores are on a 100 point scale and an average of at least 3 orchid judges (excluding student judges). A plant may be awarded both Merit and Cultural Merit awards simultaneously.

It is an honor for an orchid or grower to be awarded any of these certificates or awards. It is one of the missions of the Honolulu Orchid Society to recognize excellence in orchid culture.