What Are Sympathy Flowers?

Sympathy flowers are floral arrangements sent to express sympathy or condolences when someone has lost a loved one. These flowers serve as a gentle reminder of life’s beauty and provide comfort during moments of sadness. Sympathy flowers can be given in many different contexts, whether it's for a funeral, a wake, or simply as a gesture of support for someone experiencing grief.

The goal of sympathy flowers is not only to show support but also to bring some comfort and beauty to a challenging time. The type of flowers you choose can convey different sentiments, so it’s important to consider the symbolism of flowers and the preferences of the recipient when selecting an arrangement.

What Flowers Are For Sympathy?

There are certain flowers that are traditionally associated with sympathy and are considered more appropriate for mourning occasions. These flowers are often chosen for their meanings, colours, and overall aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular flowers for sympathy arrangements:

1. Lilies

• Symbolism: Lilies are one of the most common flowers used for sympathy bouquets. They symbolise purity, renewal, and the restored soul of the deceased. White lilies, in particular, are often chosen for their elegance and association with the afterlife.
• Why They Work: Their large, soft petals and sweet fragrance evoke a sense of calm and serenity, making them a perfect choice for memorial services and funerals. 

2. Roses

• Symbolism: Roses, especially white and pink ones, are symbols of love and remembrance. White roses represent purity and innocence, while pink roses symbolise grace and admiration.
• Why They Work: Roses are universally loved and can add a touch of elegance and warmth to a sympathy arrangement. Their classic beauty makes them appropriate for both formal and informal occasions.

For a deeper dive into the symbolism of roses and other popular flowers, check out our post on Flowers For Funerals.

3. Chrysanthemums

• Symbolism: Chrysanthemums, particularly in white and yellow, are widely recognised as flowers of mourning in many cultures. They symbolise life and rebirth, as well as love and honour for the deceased.
• Why They Work: These flowers have a long-lasting nature, making them ideal for funeral tributes or for sending a message of remembrance and respect.

4. Carnations

• Symbolism: Carnations are often used in sympathy arrangements, particularly white, pink, and red carnations. They symbolise a love that never dies and a remembrance that continues beyond the grave.
• Why They Work: Their soft, frilled petals are gentle and comforting, and they are affordable, making them a versatile choice for a range of sympathy arrangements.

5. Orchids

• Symbolism: Orchids are exotic flowers that represent beauty, strength, and love. They are often seen as symbols of everlasting love and are a poignant way to convey your condolences.
• Why They Work: Orchids are elegant and have a refined aesthetic, making them suitable for more personal and long-lasting sympathy gestures, such as a potted orchid plant.

6. Hydrangeas

• Symbolism: Hydrangeas represent heartfelt emotions and are often seen as a symbol of understanding and sincere gratitude. The abundance of their blooms conveys a deep emotional connection.
• Why They Work: Hydrangeas are soft and full, making them a beautiful and comforting choice for sympathy arrangements. Their lush blooms can convey a sense of empathy and solidarity during a difficult time.

7. Tulips

• Symbolism: Tulips are associated with comfort and peace. In particular, white tulips symbolise forgiveness, while purple tulips represent royalty and dignity.
• Why They Work: Tulips are simple yet elegant flowers that can bring a sense of tranquility. Their smooth, rounded petals are a comforting presence in sympathy bouquets.

How to Pick the Right Sympathy Bouquet

Selecting the right sympathy flowers involves a few important considerations. Here are some tips to help guide your decision:

1. Consider the Relationship
The type of flowers you choose may depend on your relationship to the deceased or the person receiving the flowers. Close family members may appreciate a more personal bouquet, while more general arrangements are suitable for friends, colleagues, or acquaintances.

2. Think About the Venue
If you're sending flowers for a funeral or memorial service, think about the setting. Large arrangements, like standing sprays or wreaths, are ideal for the service, while smaller, more intimate bouquets can be sent to the home.

3. Choose Meaningful Colours
While white is the most common colour for sympathy flowers, subtle shades of pink, lavender, or soft yellow can also be appropriate. Each colour can carry its own symbolic meaning, so choose colours that reflect the sentiment you wish to convey.

4. Personalise with the Deceased’s Favourite Flowers
If you knew the deceased well, you might want to include their favourite flowers in the arrangement. Personalising the bouquet adds a special touch and can make the flowers even more meaningful to those grieving.

5. Consider Long-Lasting Flowers
Sympathy flowers are often appreciated for several days, so consider choosing flowers with a long vase life, like lilies, chrysanthemums, or orchids.

Choosing the right sympathy flowers is an important gesture that communicates love, respect, and support during a time of loss. By selecting flowers that symbolize comfort, peace, and remembrance, you can offer a thoughtful tribute to those who are grieving. Whether you're sending a bouquet to a funeral, memorial service, or simply offering support to a loved one, the flowers you choose can help ease their sorrow and bring a sense of solace.

For more information on how to care for your sympathy flowers after they arrive, visit our Blog How to Preserve a Flower Bouquet and Keep It Fresh.

We’d love to hear from you! Have you ever chosen sympathy flowers for a loved one? What flowers did you choose, and what did they symbolise for you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!