What Do Different Funeral Flowers Mean?

Coping with the loss of a loved one is an emotionally taxing ordeal. It often involves navigating through traditional customs and rituals, one of which is the giving and receiving of flowers at funerals. While the beauty of funeral flowers provides a measure of comfort, they also carry deep symbolism and convey messages beyond words. The guide below offers insight into the meanings behind various funeral flowers so that you can choose a thoughtful arrangement that resonates with your sentiments.

Lilies: The Flower of Resurrection

Lilies are one of the most common choices for funerals, revered for their serene beauty and poignant symbolism. The pristine white lily, in particular, is often associated with the innocence that has been restored to the soul of the departed.

Meaning: Revered for its symbolism of purity and renewal, the white lily is a herald of the soul's return to a peaceful state of innocence.

Roses: Love and Grief Expressed

Roses, in their myriad hues, articulate different emotions. A red rose evokes love's enduring passion, while a white one resembles innocence and reverence. Yellow roses, often given by friends of the deceased, symbolize strong ties. A single rose in a bouquet can express enduring love for the departed.

Meaning: Each color of the rose speaks to the heart’s deepest feelings—love, respect, friendship, and more.

Carnations: Tokens of Remembrance

Carnations carry different meanings based on their color, similar to roses. Red carnations symbolize admiration, while white carnations stand for pure love and innocence. Pink carnations are commonly believed to hold a message of remembrance.

Meaning: A floral representation of affection and the sweet sorrow of memory, carnations are a testament to enduring love.

Chrysanthemums: Sorrow and Honor

In many European countries, chrysanthemums are a symbol of death and are often used exclusively for funerals or graves. In the United States, they represent truth and are regarded as an acknowledgment of grief and support.

Meaning: These blooms are tributes to a life well-lived, honoring the truth of losing someone cherished.

Orchids: Everlasting Love

The delicate and exotic orchid often conveys everlasting love. When you choose to gift orchids as a funeral flower, you are imparting a message of your undying love for the deceased.

Meaning: Their long-lasting bloom mirrors the eternal love felt for those who have passed.

Gladioli: Strength and Character

A spray of gladioli communicates admiration not just for the beauty of the flowers but also for the character and strength of the individual who has passed away. It's a respectful nod to the deceased's moral integrity and virtues.

Meaning: Honor a loved one’s strength and integrity with the stately gladiolus.

Forget-Me-Nots: Memories and Respect

True to their name, forget-me-nots are symbolic of enduring memories and respect. They are often chosen to show that the departed will always be remembered with fondness.

Meaning: A bouquet of forget-me-nots speaks to the timeless remembrance and the hope that the departed will not be forgotten.