Abstract: To investigate the effects of planting density and number of leaves remaining on the yield and quality of flue-cured tobacco in Huili, and to determine the optimal population structure for tobacco cultivation in Huili tobacco-growing area. C3F grade flue-cured tobacco leaves after curing were used as the research materials. Agronomic traits, economic traits, chemical composition, sensory quality and appearance quality were evaluated and analyzed, and the flue-cured tobacco quality was comprehensively assessed. The results showed that with increasing planting density and leaf number, the leaf area of middle leaves significantly decreased, while yield and output value increased. However, the proportion of high-grade tobacco generally declined. Chlorophyll, nicotine, total nitrogen, and potassium contents in flue-cured tobacco showed a decreasing trend. When the planting density was 15000 plants/hm² and the number of leaves retained was 20, the population structure was good, and the proportion and average price of high-grade tobacco were high. The chemical components were well-balanced with appropriate content. The cured leaves exhibited good maturity, strong color intensity, adequate oil content, and moderate body. Sensory evaluation revealed high aroma quality and quantity, a comfortable aftertaste, and a well-defined sweet and mellow aroma style. The treatment can establish the best overall quality, high economic benefits and improve sensory and appearance quality. This configuration contributes to the formation of high-quality flue-cured tobacco with a distinct sweet and mellow aroma style.