Flowers have a fascinating language and history; every colour, bloom, and arrangement has a different connotation. While much of this language is lost or not followed anymore, some people still follow the historical symbolism and may feel that it’s appropriate for an occasion such as a funeral. In some cultures (especially Eastern European), flower meanings and history is still quite well known.
Flower Colours
Blue: represents tranquillity and harmony, with a sense of stability, confidence, and honesty. Blue flowers are relatively rare, although there are coloured options if you feel that this is the right colour for you.
Green: these flowers are meant to bring luck.
Orange: suggest flamboyance and a fiery personality. Orange arrangements used to be placed in buildings or rooms where people were expected to discuss ideas and theories.
Pink: represents fresh beginnings and passions. It can symbolise youth or emotional maturity, but different shades have different meanings. Pale pink is still associated with femininity, while brighter shades suggest romance, fun, and friendship.
Red: represents intensity, passion, and danger. These could be suitable for someone who had an impulsive personality or had a real zest for life. Red roses are also associated with love and romance.
White: is used around the world for significant occasions and is the colour of the circle of life. It represents purity, and when given as a gift isa gesture of respect. Most classic funeral arrangements are white and this is often the best option if you are unsure.
Yellow: represents hope and happiness, and is often a token of courage and cheerfulness. Yellow flowers are quite unusual in funeral tributes, but new traditions celebrate a person’s life rather than mourning their passing so it can be appropriate depending on the occasion.
Purple: represents spirituality and admiration. Purple has been the colour of royalty for much of history and flowers in this colour often show respect.
Birth Month Flowers
January: carnations
February: irises
March: daffodils
April: daisies
May: lilies
June: roses
July: delphiniums
August: gladioli
September: asters
October: marigolds
November: chrysanthemums
December: poinsettia
Flower Meanings
Acacia: friendship and chaste love
Camellia: gratitude and perfection
Carnations: devoted love or womanly love (especially a mother’s love)
Chrysanthemums: friendship, love, cheerfulness in old age, optimism, or a desolate heart
Dahlia: dignity, elegance, and good taste
Daisy: innocence, loyalty, purity, gentleness, and abundance
Forget me nots: faithful love and memories
Gladiola: strength of character, sincerity, and moral integrity
Hyacinth: sincerity
Iris: faith, wisdom, valour, and hope
Lilac: purity and modesty
Lily: lilies come in a variety of types and have a number of meanings, from wealth and prosperity to youthful love and coquetry
Magnolia: nobility and dignity
Orchids: refinement and affection
Rose: confidentiality, love and passion
Sunflowers: adoration, warmth and longevity
Sweet Pea: pleasure, departure and goodbyes
Tulip: romance, elegance and grace