Giving flowers to a relative of the deceased or placing them around the casket is an ancient practice. Although they were once used to mask unpleasant odors, today they are more of an expression of thoughtfulness.
While all flowers are beautiful and unique in their own way, some flowers have become a symbol of compassion, grief and remembrance. Here are 10 flowers that mean remembrance and symbolize empathy.
10 flowers that mean memory
These 10 flowers that mean memory are perfect for any occasion.
1. Lilies
Lilies, especially white lilies, are most often used in mourning settings such as vigils, funerals and memorials. Lilies represent purity, innocence and sympathy, as well as a solid commitment to your loved ones who will always live on in your memories.
They are given to bereaved families as a symbol of a new beginning and the many chapters of life to come. It conveys to them that their loved ones will never be forgotten, even in this new chapter without them.
It can represent the idea of the departed soul receiving a renewed innocence and, in some other beliefs, even a rebirth.
2. Roses
The rose is the king of flowers. It is available in so many different shades and varieties that you can find one for any occasion. While roses are generally used to represent love, the versatile flower also represents gentleness (pink rose), reverence, youth (white rose), loyalty (yellow rose) and more.
In addition to symbolizing deep romantic love, the rose is also a sign of innocence and purity. The white rose, in particular, expresses remembrance and sympathy, and is often used for memorial services.
There is also the ritual of a special souvenir rose. It is a rose planted in the memory of the loved one that will be nurtured for many years.
3. Don’t forget me
As the name suggests, flowers symbolize memory. It also represents love and respect for the deceased and is a way of honoring them.
Reminders aren’t just for remembering, they also convey the importance of that person in your life. Let’s just say it also means endless love.
These flowers became a true symbol of love, sacrifice and remembrance after World War II. They were used to remember the martyrs who had died to protect others and for world peace and freedom.
Therefore, giving these small, delicate flowers to a loved one of the deceased is your way of saying that they have had a lasting impact on your life and that you will carry them in your heart.
4. Tulips
Tulips are bright flowers that come in many shades. They are vibrant and among the fastest to bloom. Different colors represent different things. Red tulips represent love, white represents forgiveness and remembrance, pink ignites a sense of joy, and yellow signifies encouragement and hope for the grieving family.
White tulips are a way to sympathize with the grieving family. They are also associated with regret and are the flower of choice for people who want to apologize.
They often come in a single color, mostly white. If given in a mixture of colors, they symbolize joy and hope and brighten a dark mood.
5. Hyacinths
Hyacinths are often associated with jealousy. However, the purple hyacinth represents sorrow, sadness, and sometimes even an apology.
It symbolizes regret for having caused pain or hurt to someone and is often seen as a way of seeking forgiveness. It is used to represent the inner turmoil one faces due to regret for something not said or done.
They convey your anguish and their sweet smell is a reminder that they will be forever in your memory.
6. Rosella
The poppy is known around the world as a flower that represents remembrance and respect. It is mostly used to honor warriors who have given their lives for their country.
As well as being part of mourning ceremonies, poppies are also placed directly on graves, especially on the caskets of soldiers who died while serving (killed in action or KIA).
The red poppy is the “poppy of remembrance” placed on graves, while roses represent love and compassion.
7. Orchids
Orchids are a large family with many plants. They represent eternity or everlasting love as they remain in bloom for quite a long time compared to other flowers.
Although it is a symbol of love, it is not uncommon to see orchids at memorial services, vigils and funerals. In addition to love, wisdom and beauty, the flower also represents sympathy, respect and remembrance.
Whites and pinks are mainly used for remembrance, sympathy and comfort.
8. Carnations
Carnations are suitable for any gathering or event, including remembrance. They come in various colors and each color has a specific meaning. Pink carnations are a symbol of remembrance, while white flowers represent purity.
Carnations are used along with lilies and roses in funeral arrangements. They are very popular sympathy flowers, often used in funeral services that last more than a few days.
Carnations are a dignified way to remember a loved one. Giving it to someone means you are thinking of them and sympathizing with their loss.
9. Chrysanthemums
Known as “mames,” short for “chrysanthemums,” the flower means different things in different parts of the world. In Europe mums represent death and are used to decorate the graves of loved ones.
In Asia, mums are a symbol of mourning, while in the United States they are used to honor the lost. So, if the grieving family is from Asia, offer your condolences with a bunch of chrysanthemums.
10. Gladioli
Gladioli represent character and strength, making it the perfect flower of remembrance, offering strength to the grieving family. It is also a way of saying that the deceased was a strong person and that they too must be strong.
Gladioli also symbolize remembrance, honor, sincerity and integrity. They have long, tender stems and grow in clusters. They are a good choice for memorial services and funerals.
