They are narrower relative to their length than leaves from the C group. The first leaf tobacco from the stalk is longer, lighter in color, and thinner-bodied than the leaf further up the stalk. This is known as bright leaf. Bright leaf has a tan-colored face and back and usually shows maturity and finish. This group consists of leaves grown at the top of the stalk.
Tips have a slightly lower degree of maturity and leaf structure than other leaves on the stalk.
Tips are the short leaves at the top of the stalk and are less that 16 inches long. This combination can consist of flyings and leaf or all stalk positions mixed together. The color symbols L, F, FR, and R represent mature to ripe tobacco, while D, K, and M indicate mature to underripe tobacco. The color symbols V, VF, and VR also designate underripe tobacco. A summary of standard grades and a key to standard grademarks are listed in Table 11-1 .