This updated guide explains common funeral floral arrangements - wreaths, standing sprays, casket sprays, and personalized shapes - and discusses commonly used flowers such as lilies, roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums. It highlights cultural variations in where to send flowers, modern alternatives like potted plants and eco-friendly designs, and practical tips for choosing an appropriate tribute.

Losing someone is hard, and choosing the right way to express sympathy can feel overwhelming. Sending funeral flowers remains a widely used and meaningful way to offer condolences. This guide explains common arrangements, traditions, and modern options to help you pick an appropriate tribute.

Common types of funeral floral arrangements

Wreaths and standing sprays

Wreaths - circular arrangements - are commonly used to symbolize continuity or eternal life. Standing sprays (or easel arrangements) are designed to be viewed from one side and are often displayed near a casket or at the service.

Casket sprays and bouquet tributes

A casket spray lies on top of a coffin and is usually ordered by immediate family. Smaller bouquet-style tributes may be sent by friends or colleagues and placed nearby.

Religious shapes and personalized forms

Cross-shaped arrangements are traditional at many Christian services as an emblem of faith. Floral pieces shaped to reflect a person's profession, hobby, or affiliation (for example, sports logos or hobby motifs) are still used to personalize memorials. Historically, some organizations sent emblems representing their group on floral pieces; for instance, Rotary clubs have used arrangements incorporating their wheel emblem .

Flower choices and their tones

Common flowers for sympathy arrangements include lilies, roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums. Lilies are frequently associated with purity and renewal; roses can indicate love and respect; carnations and chrysanthemums are often chosen for their durability and somber tones.

Florists often mix flowers to add texture and color without overwhelming the somber mood. Delicate accents like delphinium or asters might be used to introduce subtle brightness while keeping a restrained palette.

Modern considerations and alternatives

Customs about where to send flowers vary by culture and family preference. Many people still send arrangements to the funeral home or place of service; others prefer deliveries to the family home or request that mourners make charitable donations in the deceased's name instead of flowers.

Eco-conscious options are increasingly available: potted plants, locally sourced flowers, and biodegradable foam-free designs are alternatives to traditional cut-flower sprays 1. Potted plants also offer a longer-lasting memorial for the family.

Practical tips

  • Check with the family or funeral home for any requests (flowers vs. donations, preferred colors, delivery time).
  • Coordinate size: large standing sprays suit public memorials; smaller bouquets are better for private viewings.
  • Personalize thoughtfully: include a favorite flower or subtle nod to a hobby, but respect the family's tone for the service.
Choosing flowers is a personal way to convey sympathy. When in doubt, ask the family or funeral home for guidance - they will welcome the thoughtfulness more than the specifics of any arrangement.
  1. Verify historical use of Rotary club wheel emblem in funeral floral designs and whether a 'broken wheel' shaped wreath was a recognized tradition.
  2. Confirm trend data indicating an increase in eco-friendly funeral floral options (potted plants, locally sourced flowers, biodegradable designs).

FAQs about Funeral Floral Arrangement

What is the difference between a wreath and a standing spray?
A wreath is a circular arrangement symbolizing continuity, usually displayed flat or on a stand. A standing spray is an easel-mounted arrangement meant to be viewed from one side and placed near the casket or at the service.
Should I send flowers to the funeral home or the family's home?
Customs vary. Many people send arrangements to the funeral home or place of service, but some families prefer deliveries to their home or request donations instead. When possible, check with the family or funeral director first.
Are specific flowers more appropriate for funerals?
Lilies, roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums are commonly used for sympathy arrangements. Choose flowers and colors that reflect the tone the family prefers - subdued palettes are typical for somber services.
What are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional funeral flowers?
Eco-conscious choices include potted plants, locally sourced blooms, and designs that avoid non-biodegradable foam. These options can be longer-lasting and reduce waste.