Which of the following is the correct classification of *Petunia × hybrida* cv.?

• A. Kingdom: Plantae; Family: Fabaceae; Genus: Rosa; Species: × hybrida
• B. Kingdom: Fungi; Family: Rosaceae; Genus: Petunia; Species: hybrida
• C. Kingdom: Animalia; Family: Solanaceae; Genus: Petunia; Species: hybrida
• D. Kingdom: Plantae; Family: Solanaceae; Genus: Petunia; Species: × hybrida

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the classification hierarchy in biology. Organisms are classified into categories such as Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species. This hierarchy helps organize and identify organisms based on shared characteristics.
2. Step 2: Analyze the given options and identify the correct Kingdom. *Petunia × hybrida* is a plant, so it belongs to the Kingdom Plantae. Eliminate options with incorrect Kingdom classifications (e.g., Fungi or Animalia).
3. Step 3: Determine the correct Family. *Petunia × hybrida* belongs to the Family Solanaceae, which includes plants like tomatoes and peppers. Eliminate options with incorrect Family classifications (e.g., Fabaceae or Rosaceae).
4. Step 4: Identify the correct Genus. The Genus of *Petunia × hybrida* is Petunia, as indicated by its scientific name. Eliminate options with incorrect Genus classifications (e.g., Rosa).
5. Step 5: Confirm the correct Species designation. The species name includes '× hybrida,' which indicates a hybrid. Ensure the correct species name matches the scientific naming conventions for hybrids.