Some flowers are commonly used for sympathy, such as lilies, roses, carnations, orchids, chrysanthemums and gladioli. But you don't have to stick to those.
White is universally recognised to represent mourning as it symbolises peace, purity and love. White flowers including lilies, roses and chrysanthemums all make excellent choices for sympathy flowers.
Blue flowers represent sadness, sympathy and peace. Orange flowers signify enthusiasm, joy and warmth. Purple flowers represent respect, sorrow, sympathy and admiration. Yellow flowers signify friendship, warmth and hope.
The rose is perhaps the most well-known flower associated with death, and lilies are also commonly used in funeral arrangements.
The difference between “funeral flowers” and “sympathy flowers” is that funeral flowers will go directly to the funeral home to act as a tribute at the service of the deceased. They add decoration, beauty, and life to what can be an overwhelmingly somber event. Sympathy flowers are typically sent after the service.
Dark crimson roses denote grief and sorrow. Yellow roses are given by friends of the deceased to symbolize their strong ties. When you include a single rose in a bouquet it expresses enduring love for the deceased.
They show that everything beautiful will eventually pass. But that gives you all the more reason to celebrate the beautiful things in life as they bloom. Giving flowers to a grieving loved one is a common way to offer them your deepest sympathies and show them that you care.
White and yellow chrysanthemums are widely used to say goodbye, particularly in Asia. This 'golden flower' is packed with meaning in those countries.
The purple hyacinth can communicate the pain that you feel upon hearing of their loss, and this simple sentiment is often just what the family needs.
Purple, a color traditionally tied to notions of royalty and dignity, is less frequently seen but still bears significant meaning in funeral flower arrangements. Purple flowers, like lavender or violets, often stand as a symbol of admiration and honor for a life that was well-lived.
And while white is undoubtedly the most popular colour for sympathy flowers, soft pastels or deep, rich shades can also work well. If you want to add a little colour to your condolences, consider an arrangement that includes pink gerberas, deep red roses or purple lavender.
1. Lilies – These flowers are a traditional choice for funerals, especially white ones because they represent rejuvenation of the soul and rebirth. 2. Carnations – Another common choice for expressing sympathy.
“Sharing in your sadness as you remember your lost loved one.” “Wishing you strength and comfort through this difficult time.” “Thinking of you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort.” “I hope you know I'm here for you during this time of sorrow.”
The color black is a symbol of mourning in many cultures. People often wear a black dress or other black clothing when attending a funeral service. Some cultures have people wear black clothing for a certain designated amount of time after a death to show their respect. Funeral flowers are a common symbol of grief.
The lotus flower is a symbol in Eastern traditions. It represents humans suffering, overcoming life's challenges, and personal growth to a place of spiritual enlightenment, rebirth, or self-regeneration.
Hibiscus flowers are a popular flower choice to honor the loss of a mother or wife. These delicate blooms often represent femininity and beauty — perfect for those who are grieving an important woman in their life.
They are used to symbolize remembrance, love, and respect for the departed person, and a way of telling others that the departed has gone to heaven. In these emotional times, white roses act as a way to bring a little bit of peace to the grieving family.
Roses (especially pink ones)
Pink roses are especially fitting if you're looking for “what flowers say I'm sorry”. That's because they are the rose that most expresses gratitude and appreciation.
Symbolism. The hydrangea represents gratitude, grace and beauty. It also radiates abundance because of the lavish number of flowers and the generous round shape. Its colours symbolise love, harmony and peace.
Baby's breath is blooming with symbolism. Most commonly, this flower is a symbol of everlasting love—which is one reason why it's a popular wedding flower. Baby's breath also represents innocence, which makes it a lovely gesture to include in baby shower gifts and gifts for new mothers.
It is also appropriate to bring a card if you are attending the wake, however, sending it a few days later is considered a good time frame. The only time sending a sympathy card after the two week period, would be if you had just found out about the person's loss.
A bouquet of three roses means “I love You” and is the traditional one-month anniversary gift.
Gardenias are often sent to those grieving as a way to express heartfelt sentiments. The gardenia represents peace and purity. You can send a potted plant that can later be transplanted in a special corner of the yard as a memorial to your loved one.
Roses as Funeral Flowers
The classic red rose evokes love, respect and courage in the face of grief. White roses symbolize reverence, youth and innocence. Pink roses signify love, goodwill, and appreciation, whereas yellow roses should be brought by friends of the departed to symbolize their enduring friendship.