What flowers are appropriate to bring to a funeral?

Bringing flowers to a funeral is a traditional way to express sympathy, respect, and support. The type of flowers you choose can convey specific sentiments. Here are some appropriate and commonly used flowers for funerals, along with their symbolic meanings:

Traditional Funeral Flowers & Meanings
Lilies
Symbolism: Purity, innocence, the restored innocence of the soul of the deceased.
Most popular: White lilies (especially the Stargazer or Calla lilies).
Roses
Symbolism varies by color:
White: Reverence, purity, innocence.
Red: Love, respect, courage.
Pink: Grace, admiration.
Yellow: Friendship (more appropriate for celebrations of life than somber funerals).
Carnations
Symbolism: Remembrance and love.
Often used in funeral wreaths and sprays.
White: Pure love and innocence.
Red: Admiration.
Pink: Remembrance.
Chrysanthemums (Mums)
Symbolism: Varies by culture. In Europe and many Asian countries, chrysanthemums are specifically associated with death and mourning.
In the U.S., they can mean honor and sympathy.
Best to use white mums.
Gladiolus
Symbolism: Strength of character, integrity.
Tall and stately, often used in standing sprays.
Orchids
Symbolism: Eternal love and beauty.
White and pink orchids are particularly appropriate for sympathy arrangements.
Hydrangeas, Daisies, and Tulips
Hydrangeas: Deep gratitude, heartfelt emotions.
Daisies: Innocence and purity (especially for younger individuals).
Tulips: Renewal and hope.
Tips for Choosing Funeral Flowers
Stick with soft, muted tones (white, cream, pale pink, lavender) unless you know the family prefers a celebration of life or the deceased loved bright colors.
Sympathy arrangements like wreaths, standing sprays, or baskets are common. If you’re attending a wake or visitation, a smaller bouquet or vase arrangement is appropriate.
Religious or cultural customs matter. Some cultures or religions (e.g., Jewish funerals) traditionally do not include flowers; in those cases, consider a donation or a food basket instead.