What Flowers Are Appropriate for Funerals? Meanings, Traditions & Thoughtful Choices
Choosing flowers for a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially at a time when emotions are already running high. In New York City—where cultures, faiths and traditions intersect—there is no single “correct” flower to send. Instead, the most appropriate choice is one that feels respectful, heartfelt and suited to the family’s traditions.
This guide explains the meanings behind popular funeral flowers, colour considerations, cultural expectations, and how to select a tribute that feels fitting for the person being remembered.
Why Flowers Matter at a Funeral
Funeral flowers serve as a visual expression of love, remembrance and support. They offer comfort to the family and honour the life of the person who has passed. In many cultures, flowers are seen as a symbol of the beauty and impermanence of life.
At Alaric Sympathy, we design arrangements that feel elegant, calm and appropriate for the setting—whether a chapel, funeral home, synagogue, church or crematorium.
The Most Appropriate Flowers for Funerals
These are the blooms most commonly chosen for funeral services in NYC:
1. Lilies
Lilies are one of the most classic funeral flowers. White lilies represent peace, innocence and the restoration of the soul. Their scent and shape create a serene, timeless presence in any service.
2. White Roses
White roses symbolise reverence, honour and remembrance. They work beautifully in standing sprays, wreaths, casket sprays or smaller arrangements for the home.
3. Orchids
Orchids convey enduring love and deep respect. Their elegance makes them suitable for both services and condolence deliveries. White and pale pink varieties are most commonly used for funerals.
4. Hydrangea
Hydrangea symbolises grace, understanding and heartfelt emotion. Their full, cloud-like shape adds softness and volume to funeral pieces.
5. Chrysanthemums
In many European and Asian cultures, chrysanthemums are deeply associated with mourning and honour. White mums are especially traditional and are used in wreaths, hearts and standing sprays.
6. Lisianthus
Lisianthus blooms convey calm and tenderness. Their soft petals make them ideal for more delicate or understated designs.
7. Seasonal White Blooms
Seasonal flowers such as ranunculus, stock, snapdragons and delphinium can add beauty and texture while staying within a classic and appropriate colour palette.
Understanding Colour Choices
When selecting funeral flowers, colour can carry meaning:
- White & Cream – Peace, respect, purity, remembrance
- Soft Pastels – Gentleness, love, comfort
- Blues – Calm, serenity, spiritual reflection
- Deep Greens – Natural calm, grounding
Bright colours can also be appropriate, particularly for a celebration of life, multicultural families, or when the family specifically requests something joyful. If you’re unsure, choosing a soft, elegant palette is always safe.
Choosing the Right Style of Funeral Arrangement
Different arrangements communicate different levels of closeness and intention:
Casket Spray (Immediate Family Only)
This is the main tribute placed on top of the casket and is traditionally chosen by immediate family. We design full-length or half-length sprays depending on preference.
Standing Sprays
These are displayed on an easel at the service and are suitable for extended family, close friends, colleagues or groups.
Wreaths, Hearts & Crosses
Symbolic and visually impactful, these shapes represent eternal love, compassion or faith. They work well for families, corporate groups or close friends.
Urn Tributes for Cremation Services
For cremation, flowers are arranged around or beside the urn in a soft, circular or cascading design.
Vase Arrangements & Bouquets (for the Home)
These are sent to the family home, office or shiva house to offer comfort in the days and weeks after the service.
What Is the Most Appropriate Flower for a Funeral?
Google often suggests this question, but the truth is simpler: the most appropriate flower is the one that feels right for the person being remembered.
If they loved orchids, or always wore soft blue, or kept white roses at home—these details matter. We can personalise arrangements to honour their personality and story.
Cultural & Religious Considerations
New York City is beautifully diverse, and different traditions have different expectations:
- Jewish funerals – Flowers are generally not sent to the funeral; instead, send to the shiva home.
- Catholic & Christian services – Standing sprays, wreaths and casket sprays are common.
- Non-religious or modern services – A broad range of floral choices are appropriate.
- Asian traditions – Chrysanthemums and calm white palettes are often preferred.
If you're unsure, we can guide you based on the venue, tradition and your relationship to the family.
How Much Should I Spend on Funeral Flowers?
Appropriate price ranges vary based on your relationship. In NYC, typical ranges include:
- $125 – $300 for hand-tied bouquets
- $150 – $350 for vase arrangements
- $300 – $650+ for standing sprays
- $350 – $800+ for wreaths and hearts
- $400 – $950+ for casket sprays
These are guidelines, not rules. A sincere gesture at any size is meaningful.
Why Choosing a Specialist NYC Funeral Florist Matters
Funeral flowers require timing, precision and sensitivity that general florists or mass-market providers often cannot offer.
A dedicated funeral florist ensures:
- Direct coordination with the funeral home
- On-time delivery before the service
- Appropriate design for the cultural or religious setting
- Premium flowers that hold well during viewings
- Guidance on what is suitable given your relationship
When you contact Alaric Sympathy, you speak to a real florist—often the studio owner—who takes time to understand your wishes. This personal attention makes a difference in moments that matter.
We Are Here to Help
If you’re unsure what to choose, or want something personalised, we will guide you gently. Share whatever details you have—no matter how small—and we’ll take care of the rest with respect and care.