Revealed: The hidden meaning of the funeral flowers you choose

There’s lots to consider when planning a funeral and each element can say something personal about your loved one, but when it comes to the flowers, there are hidden meanings that many of us don’t know about.

That doesn’t mean you need to follow a set of rules, of course - you might simply choose a display based around your loved one’s favourite bloom - but knowing these meanings could help inspire you in your choices.

Red roses

Roses are very popular but their hidden meaning differs depending on the colour, and red is believed to symbolise grief and sorrow.

That makes them ideal tributes from partners or close family members.

Pink roses

Dark pink roses represent grace and gratitude, so are often gifted by other family members and mourners.

Yellow roses

These symbolise strong friendship so are a good choice for friends of the person who has died as a sign of the depth of their relationship.

Gladioli

The gladiolus gets its name from ‘gladiator’, and gladioli are used to convey strength of character and moral integrity.

Lilies

A white lily is a classic funeral bloom, and in flower symbolism, white lilies mean majesty, purity and a return to innocence.

Meanwhile, peace lily plants represent peace, harmony, and rebirth. They’re often sent as gifts to the family of the deceased as a reminder that their memory will live on.

Carnations

These typically stand for love, admiration and remembrance, making them an appropriate choice for many funeral goers.

Red chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums represent trust, friendship and loyalty, but like roses, the hidden meaning changes according to their colour, with red meaning love.

White chrysanthemums

The meaning is the same as above, but white is for innocence. Chrysanthemums are also called ‘mums’ for short, so often appear in funeral tributes for mothers.

Of course, many other factors influence our choice of arrangement. It may depend on the time of year, with garden flowers and pastel shades more popular in summer while darker foliage and berries dominate in winter months.