When someone dies, it is common to send flowers. Whether you send an arrangement or plant to the funeral, burial, or family home, this is a courtesy that conveys condolences at a difficult time. But what kind of flowers are best?
When it comes to a death, choose flowers with longevity. It could be several days before the service, or the family may be so busy that they do not get the chance to enjoy and care for bouquets sent to their home. It may help to know just how long funeral flowers last once they have been cut:
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Lace-leaf, also called Anthurium, lasts the longest of most funeral flowers at around 42 days after being cut and arranged. These large and elegant blooms are vibrant red with yellow stamens and waxy leaves.
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Cut chrysanthemums last well in a vase for a week or longer when you change and freshen the water every two or three days.
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Big, bold Zinnia is a smart choice and most cut blooms will last up to 10 days in a vase of fresh water.
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A potted Orchid can last two to three months with care- making it a good choice to send to the family home as a condolence.
Beyond longevity, what is the meaning behind funeral flowers? Talk to a florist such as Meaningful Flowers about the underlying meaning of specific flowers to determine the best presentation or arrangement for the event. Send something that conveys exactly what you want to say to the bereaved with these suggestions:
Orchids
Orchids of all colors traditionally signify love and loyalty.
Roses
Roses are a very popular funeral flower, with red roses symbolizing eternal love and grief for the deceased. White roses represent innocence and spirituality — often sent to the funerals of children that have passed.
Carnations
Carnations are popular in any color, but white signifies purity while red carnations represent fondness and affection.
Chrysanthemums
Sending 'mums' to a funeral demonstrates sympathy and condolences. Red mums signify love and honor, also.
Lilies
Lilies are traditional funeral flowers. Florists report that lilies represent the soul's return to a state of purity.
Hyacinth
Hyacinth signifies prayer and that you — the giver — are praying for the deceased's loved ones.
Sending funeral flowers to either the service or the family is a courteous gesture during a difficult time. Use these tips to send flowers with significance, that will last for many days to come.