It can be immensely difficult to know what to say when someone loses a loved one. Most of us resort to platitudes, when all we want to do is express how much we care. And that’s one of the reasons why flowers have become such an important aspect of the funeral process. But what are the different meanings behind funeral flowers? And which should you choose?
What do Different Funeral Flowers Mean?
Lilies
Lilies have traditionally been among the most popular funeral flowers. And this is for a wide range of reasons. It’s partly because all lilies have an association with purity. But each different species of lily carries its own symbolism, often particularly suited to funerals. So, while peace lilies represent rebirth, calla lilies death and mourning, and oriental lilies eternal life, Casablanca lilies denote a celebration of life, and stargazer lilies sympathy.
Roses
For many people, roses are the floral embodiment of love. But while they are usually associated with romantic love, roses are also a perfect choice for love and loss. In fact, that is what the deep red rose traditionally symbolises. White roses, with their association with purity and innocence are also a popular choice for funerals. While pink roses are often selected to express gratitude for the life of the person who’s been lost.
Gladioli
Typically used in spray tributes, gladioli make a beautifully elegant floral display. And they’re popular because they come in a variety of colours, with each colour carrying its own nuanced meaning. But overall, the gladioli symbolises sincerity and integrity.
Chrysanthemum
Frequently used as a filler, rather than as the star of the show, chrysanthemums nevertheless make the perfect choice for funeral flowers. The longevity of the bloom denotes eternal life and rebirth. While the flowers also have a long association with friendship. So, if you’re looking for a floral arrangement that displays just how much the deceased meant to you, a display that contains chrysanthemums makes a wonderful choice.
Orchids
Like roses, orchids have always been associated with love. But each colour again carries its own meaning, making some particularly suited to funerals. The red orchid, for example, can be a wonderful gift for someone who is grieving as well as for use as a funeral flower, symbolising affection, bravery, and strength. While white orchids again represent purity and respect.
Carnations
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Perhaps more than any other flower, the carnation has a strong association with funerals and grief, because it is widely known to represent love and loss. But while carnations come in a wide variety of colours, you will primarily find white – representing innocence – pink – representing gratitude – and red – representing romantic love – carnations chosen for funeral flowers.
Selecting flowers for a funeral is never an easy or enjoyable task. But understanding the meanings behind the flowers you choose can help to add an additional layer of significance to your choice. Allowing you to express your feelings when words simply won’t do.
If you need support finding the perfect flowers to express your feelings at the hardest of times, Blue Florist’s compassionate and helpful team are ready to help.