When giving flowers to someone who is grieving, it’s important to choose blooms that convey comfort, respect, and remembrance. Below are some common flowers that are often used to express sympathy and their meanings:
Lilies: Lilies, especially white lilies, are often associated with the restored innocence of the soul of the departed. They symbolise peace, purity, and the idea that the soul of the deceased has been received in a state of grace.
White Roses: Symbolise purity, reverence, and innocence, making them a respectful choice for expressing sympathy.
Red Roses: Represent love and respect. They can signify deep love for the person who has passed.
Yellow Roses: Often given to symbolise strong friendship and care, offering comfort to grieving friends.
Pink Roses: Convey gratitude and appreciation, sometimes used to express remembrance.
Chrysanthemums (Mums): In many cultures, chrysanthemums represent honour, respect, and grief. In some countries, they are solely associated with mourning and remembrance, particularly in Europe and Asia.
White Carnations: Symbolise purity and innocence, often used in sympathy arrangements.
Pink Carnations: Represent remembrance and gratitude, making them a popular choice for expressing deep respect.
Red Carnations: Convey admiration and love.
Orchids: Orchids symbolise eternal love and can be a thoughtful and elegant way to express sympathy. White or pink orchids are common choices for grieving families.
Gladioli: Gladioli convey strength of character, integrity, and sincerity. Their tall, elegant blooms make them a beautiful choice for memorial arrangements.
Daisies: Daisies can convey purity and innocence, and their simplicity makes them a gentle way to express support and comfort.
Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas symbolise heartfelt emotion and can be sent as a potted plant, offering a lasting tribute to the deceased.
Peace Lily Plant: The peace lily plant is a popular choice for sympathy gifts, symbolising the rebirth of the soul and conveying peace and hope. It is often given as a living plant that can grow and thrive, serving as a reminder of the person who has passed.
Forget-Me-Nots: As their name implies, these flowers symbolise remembrance and keeping memories alive.
When choosing flowers for someone who is grieving, white is often a safe and traditional colour choice as it conveys peace, purity, and reverence. Thoughtful arrangements tailored to the preferences or cultural traditions of the family can also carry significant meaning and offer comfort during difficult times. Adding a note with a message of sympathy or remembrance can make the gift even more meaningful.