Funeral Flower Traditions Around the World: A Cultural Guide

Flowers play a profound role in funeral rituals across cultures, serving as symbols of love, respect, remembrance, and the journey between life and death. Understanding these diverse traditions helps us honor the departed with cultural sensitivity and appropriate gestures.

Western Traditions

United States and Canada

In North America, funeral flowers are abundant and varied. White lilies, particularly calla lilies and Easter lilies, dominate funeral arrangements, symbolizing the restored innocence of the departed soul. Roses in subdued colors—white, pink, and deep red—express love and respect. Chrysanthemums are commonly used in funeral sprays and wreaths.

Arrangements typically include standing sprays near the casket, wreaths symbolizing eternal life, and casket sprays placed directly on the coffin. Family members usually send larger arrangements, while friends and colleagues send smaller sympathy bouquets to the family’s home. The tradition of sending flowers to funeral homes remains strong, though donations to charities in the deceased’s name are increasingly common.

United Kingdom and Ireland

British funeral traditions favor understated elegance. White and cream flowers predominate, with lilies, roses, and carnations being most common. Wreaths remain traditional, often incorporating rosemary for remembrance and ivy for fidelity and eternal life.

In Ireland, flowers are integral to wakes and funerals, with family members often requesting specific blooms that held meaning for the deceased. Simple, tasteful arrangements are preferred over elaborate displays. Wildflowers and garden flowers are increasingly popular, reflecting a return to natural, personal tributes.

Mediterranean Europe

In Italy, Spain, and Greece, funeral flowers are essential expressions of grief and solidarity. White flowers dominate—particularly white chrysanthemums, lilies, and roses. Elaborate wreaths and large standing arrangements line the funeral route and grave site.

Greek Orthodox funerals incorporate flowers heavily, with mourners often bringing individual flowers to place on the casket. The color white symbolizes purity and the resurrection of the soul. In rural areas, olive branches may be included, representing peace and wisdom.

East Asian Traditions

China

Chinese funeral customs vary significantly between traditional and modern practices, and between regions. White and yellow chrysanthemums are the traditional funeral flowers, as white is the color of mourning in Chinese culture. White lilies, white roses, and white orchids are also appropriate.

Red flowers are generally avoided at funerals, as red symbolizes happiness and celebration. However, exceptions exist for elderly people who lived long, full lives—their funerals may be considered celebrations with some red elements permitted.

The number of flowers matters in Chinese culture. Even numbers are preferred for funerals (unlike celebratory occasions where odd numbers are favored), as they represent completeness and finality. Avoid giving flowers in sets of four, as the word for “four” sounds like the word for “death.”

Japan

Japanese funeral traditions are deeply influenced by Buddhist practices. White chrysanthemums are the primary funeral flower, so strongly associated with death that they’re rarely given for other occasions. White and yellow flowers are appropriate, arranged with careful attention to aesthetic principles of simplicity and balance.

Flowers are typically sent before the funeral to the family’s home or the funeral venue, never afterward. The arrangements tend to be understated and elegant, reflecting Japanese aesthetic values. Lotus flowers, when available, carry Buddhist symbolism of purity rising from muddy waters, representing enlightenment after death.

Bright colors, especially red, and heavily fragrant flowers are avoided. The presentation matters greatly—flowers should be professionally arranged and accompanied by proper condolence cards with specific formal language.

Korea

Korean funerals blend Confucian, Buddhist, and Christian influences depending on the family’s beliefs. White and yellow chrysanthemums dominate traditional funerals, along with white lilies. The flowers are arranged in formal displays flanking the altar where the deceased’s photo is displayed.

Mourners typically bring monetary contributions rather than flowers, presented in special white envelopes. However, flower wreaths from organizations, companies, or close friends are common and displayed prominently at the funeral hall. The scale of floral displays often reflects the social status of the deceased and their family.

South Asian Traditions

India

Indian funeral customs vary dramatically across religious communities. In Hindu traditions, flowers are essential but their use differs from Western customs. Marigolds are the most significant funeral flower, representing the sun’s life-giving power and the brightness of the soul. Jasmine, roses, and lotus flowers are also used.

Rather than arrangements sent to funeral homes, flowers are used to create garlands (malas) placed around the deceased’s neck and adorning the body. Mourners bring flowers to place on or near the body during viewing. The deceased is often covered in flower petals before cremation.

White flowers are appropriate, but the vibrant orange and yellow of marigolds are equally traditional and preferred for their auspicious qualities. In some regions, specific flowers are avoided based on local customs.

In Muslim funerals in India, flower use is more restrained, with simple arrangements acceptable but elaborate displays discouraged. Sikh funerals incorporate flowers, particularly white flowers and garlands of marigolds and roses.

Thailand

Thai Buddhist funerals feature flowers prominently. White flowers, especially dok mali (jasmine), are most traditional. Elaborate floral arrangements tower beside the casket, often sponsored by the deceased’s friends, family, and colleagues, with ribbons indicating the sender.

Mourners typically bring fresh flower garlands or single flowers to place near the deceased during the viewing period. The more respected the deceased, the more abundant the flowers. Flowers remain present throughout the cremation ceremony.

White and yellow are the mourning colors, so flowers in these hues are most appropriate. Lotus flowers, carrying Buddhist symbolism, are particularly meaningful.

Middle Eastern Traditions

Islamic Traditions

Islamic funeral customs generally emphasize simplicity and humility, discouraging elaborate displays. In many Islamic communities, flowers at funerals are considered unnecessary or even inappropriate, as the focus should be on prayer and simplicity.

However, practices vary significantly by region and cultural background. In some Middle Eastern countries and among some Muslim communities in Southeast Asia, flowers are acceptable in moderation. When flowers are given, they should be simple, modest arrangements in white or pale colors.

Many Muslim families prefer donations to charity over flowers, aligning with Islamic values of helping the living. If you’re uncertain about a Muslim family’s preferences, it’s respectful to ask or to send condolences without flowers.

Jewish Traditions

Traditional Jewish funerals typically do not include flowers at all. This custom stems from several reasons: the emphasis on simplicity and equality in death, the prohibition against mixing mourning with beauty and pleasure, and practical concerns about flowers on the Sabbath.

Instead of flowers, Jewish mourners honor the deceased through acts of charity (tzedakah) and by visiting the mourners during shiva, the seven-day mourning period. Bringing food to the bereaved family is the customary way to show support.

Reform and some Conservative Jewish communities may be more flexible about flowers, but it’s always appropriate to check the family’s preferences. When in doubt, a charitable donation in the deceased’s name is always appreciated.

Latin American Traditions

Mexico

Mexican funeral traditions are rich with flowers, influenced by both Catholic and indigenous customs. Marigolds (cempasúchil) hold special significance, believed to guide spirits with their vibrant color and scent, especially during Día de los Muertos.

White flowers—particularly white roses, lilies, and gladiolus—are traditional for funerals. Elaborate wreaths, crosses, and standing sprays fill the funeral venue and accompany the casket. Flowers are abundant rather than sparse, reflecting the cultural value of honoring the dead generously.

The tradition of keeping vigil with the body, often at home, means flowers may be sent to the family’s residence before the funeral. Bright flowers become more acceptable after the initial mourning period, celebrating the deceased’s life.

Brazil

Brazilian funerals reflect the country’s diverse cultural influences. White flowers dominate, with white roses, lilies, and orchids being most popular. Elaborate floral arrangements and wreaths are customary, often filling the funeral chapel.

In Afro-Brazilian religious traditions like Candomblé and Umbanda, specific flowers may be used based on the orisha (deity) associated with the deceased, though these are typically reserved for religious ceremonies rather than the formal funeral.

Catholic traditions influence most Brazilian funerals, with flowers seen as expressions of love and respect. Gladiolus, representing strength and integrity, are particularly common in funeral arrangements.

African Traditions

South Africa

South African funeral traditions vary across the country’s diverse ethnic and religious groups. In many Black South African communities, funerals are major social events with elaborate preparations. Flowers are abundant, with no specific color restrictions, though purple (representing royalty and dignity) and white are popular.

Wreaths and large standing arrangements are common, often displaying ribbons with the sender’s name and their relationship to the deceased. Funeral societies and community groups typically contribute elaborate floral tributes.

In some traditional practices, particularly rural areas, indigenous plants and flowers may be incorporated alongside commercial flowers, connecting the deceased to their ancestral lands.

Nigeria

Nigerian funerals vary significantly by ethnic group and religion. In Christian communities, particularly in southern Nigeria, flowers are abundant and colorful. White remains traditional, but celebrations of life may include the deceased’s favorite colors.

Large elaborate wreaths and standing sprays are common, and the quantity of flowers can reflect the deceased’s social standing. Funeral programs often list all contributors and their floral tributes.

In Muslim communities in northern Nigeria, flowers are generally not used, following Islamic practices of simplicity. Instead, mourners focus on prayer and support for the bereaved family.

Oceanic Traditions

Australia

Australian funeral customs largely follow British traditions but with increasing personalization. Native Australian flowers like waratahs, banksias, and eucalyptus are increasingly incorporated into funeral arrangements, celebrating the deceased’s connection to the land.

In Aboriginal Australian funeral ceremonies, traditional practices vary by community but often involve bush flowers and native plants significant to the deceased’s country (ancestral land). These customs are deeply sacred and specific to particular communities.

Modern Australian funerals often request “no flowers” with donations to charity preferred, though close family still typically provides floral tributes.

New Zealand (Aotearoa)

Māori tangi (funeral rituals) incorporate flowers but with specific protocols. The deceased lies in state at the marae (meeting grounds) or family home, with flowers placed around but not on the body. Native plants like kawakawa, harakeke (flax), and kowhai may be incorporated.

In Pākehā (European New Zealander) funerals, British traditions predominate, though native flowers are increasingly popular. The focus is often on creating meaningful, personalized tributes that reflect the deceased’s life and connection to the land.

Universal Guidelines for Cultural Sensitivity

When attending a funeral in an unfamiliar cultural context, consider these approaches:

Research beforehand: If possible, learn about the specific cultural and religious traditions of the deceased’s community. A simple online search or respectful inquiry can prevent unintended offense.

Ask the family or funeral director: When in doubt, asking about preferences shows respect and consideration. Funeral directors are often knowledgeable about cultural customs in their communities.

Observe and follow: If you’re uncertain, watch what others do and follow their lead regarding when and how to approach the casket, whether to bring flowers, and how to express condolences.

Choose restraint: If you’re unsure about appropriate flowers, white flowers in simple arrangements are generally acceptable across many cultures, or consider alternatives like charitable donations or offering practical help to the family.

Respect “no flowers” requests: When families request no flowers, honor this wish completely. They may have religious, practical, or personal reasons for this preference.

Consider timing: In some cultures, flowers are brought before the funeral, during, or after. Understanding these timing differences shows respect for the mourning process.

Understanding funeral flower traditions enriches our ability to honor the deceased and comfort the bereaved across cultural boundaries. While flowers are universal symbols of love and remembrance, the specific ways we use them to express grief and celebrate life are beautifully diverse, reflecting humanity’s varied approaches to death and remembrance.