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FlowersEtiquette10 October 2026· 1 min read

Choosing funeral flowers: meanings, colours and etiquette

Lilies, roses, chrysanthemums and wreaths: what they mean, and how to choose flowers that honour your loved one.

Flowers that say what words cannot.
Flowers that say what words cannot.

Flowers have long been a way of saying what words cannot. Here is a short guide to the most common funeral flowers and what they mean.

Lilies

White lilies stand for peace and the restored innocence of the soul. They are the most traditional funeral flower.

Roses

White roses speak of reverence, red of love and courage, and yellow of friendship.

Chrysanthemums

In many cultures chrysanthemums are a symbol of honour and remembrance.

Wreaths and casket sprays

The family usually chooses the casket spray, while friends and colleagues send wreaths or arrangements to the church or home.

If your loved one had a favourite flower or colour, use it. The most meaningful flowers are the ones that remind you of them.

Written by Angel Funeral Home

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