Flowers And Their Meanings in Funeral Arrangements

By: Matthew Funeral Home
Thursday, May 1, 2025


Different types of flowers, and even the colors of those flowers, carry meaning. Each type of flower evokes different feelings in people and has a deep meaning associated with it. When you send a floral arrangement to a funeral, what you send matters. 

Roses

Roses are flowers available in an array of colors, each conveying a different meaning. Roses, as a whole or even just part of the arrangement, evoke a sense of love and closeness to the departed. If there is a single rose in the arrangement or bouquet, it shows a long-lasting love for the one who has passed.  
Different rose colors can also convey further meaning. Red roses symbolize respect, courage, and ultimately love. Darker red or crimson roses display deep sorrow and grief. White roses evoke purity, innocence, and youth. Yellow roses are meant to be given by friends as a symbol of their close personal connection. Blue roses evoke sadness and peace. Orange roses symbolize the joy and warmth that the deceased brought into the sender’s life. 

Lilies

Lilies are among the most common flowers for funeral arrangements. They symbolize the purity and innocence of the departed soul. The white lily, specifically, evokes majesty and grace. The reddish-pink stargazer lily, on the other hand, is meant for sympathy. 

Carnations

Carnations are among the longest-lasting flowers in a given funeral arrangement, and they are especially fragrant. The three most common colors of carnations are red, white, and pink. Red carnations symbolize deep respect and adoration. White carnations stand for purity and love. The pink breed is meant to evoke fond memories and remembrances. 

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are historically one of the most important flowers for funeral arrangements. They symbolize truth and are fairly cheerful. In many European countries and cultures, they are somber flowers and are almost exclusively used in funeral arrangements. The white Chrysanthemum, in particular, is a popular symbol of mourning in many Asian countries. 

Orchids

Orchids are often associated with beauty and love. In a funeral arrangement, they symbolize the beauty and strength of the deceased.

For more information on our floral arrangements, visit our florist page or talk to one of our specialists on-site. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.

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