There are many occasions when you might need to send sympathy flowers. Some a little less obvious than others.

Your best friend’s grandma died. Your aunt’s dog had to be put down. Your co-worker was let go. Your grandpa was diagnosed with cancer. Your son and his wife are struggling with infertility.

All these situations are heartbreaking in their own way, and what helps more than having your loved ones reach out to you? It’s difficult to know what to say, but sympathy comes in all shape and sizes, and sending flowers to show that you care is one of the best ways to demonstrate your love and support.

Here’s everything you need to know about sympathy flowers and the very best ones to send your friends and family in need.

Orchids

Have you ever had a friend who is going through something really tough, and you want to help, but you just aren’t sure how to do it? What do you say? How do you express what you’re really feeling without saying the wrong thing? Will you make them feel uncomfortable? Will it come out correctly?

If you’re dying to show your everlasting support to a loved one who is grieving, but don’t know exactly what to say, send an orchid! Orchids say, “I will always love you.” Pink and white are the traditional “sympathy” colours of the orchid. You can lend your support without saying a single word – your flowers can do it all for you!

Chrysanthemums Disbuds

Chrysanthemums are widely noted to be a flower symbolic of death. They are flowers that you can include in an arrangement for a funeral service or send a bouquet of for someone who is grieving. Chrysanthemums come in a wide array of colours: white, yellow, gold, pink, orange, bronze, violet, purple, maroon, and deep red.

Lilies

Lilies are a common flower used at funerals because they symbolise innocence. This innocence has been restored to the soul of the deceased since their departure from earth. If you’re looking to express sympathy, go for white stargazer lilies. These are the perfect flower to send for the visitation and funeral when you want to demonstrate your support.

Roses

As the most popular flower out there, you’d be hard fit to find a list that didn’t include roses. Whenever you’re in doubt, purchase a bouquet of roses to express your feelings. The roses say one thing and the colour says something else. Here’s a breakdown of what all of the different colours mean: 

• White – represents reverence, innocence, humility, youthfulness

• Red – coveys love, respect, and courage

• Pink – signifies love, grace, appreciation, and gentility

• Dark crimson – denotes grief and sorrow

• Yellow – given by friends of the deceased to represent strong ties

Gladioli

Okay, not one we generally stock, but worth a mention none the less. Commonly used during less than happy times, gladioli are traditionally used in fan sprays. These classic and elegant arrangements are large and colourful but do the departed right. Gladioli themselves represent strength of character, sincerity, and moral integrity. They’re available in a number of colours such as pink, purple, red, white, green, yellow, orange, and salmon. 

Tulips

Tulips are one of the flowers on this list that isn’t associated with death. Tulips are associated with renewal and revival. They are believed to be an encouragement to all those who need a fresh start from their grief. If you’re looking to pick someone up from a difficult situation, tulips are a cheery sympathy bouquet to receive. Their beauty and elegance are evident, and their colours hold different meanings. For example, yellow tulips are cheerful, purple tulips represent loyalty, and red tulips stand for perfect love.

Final thoughts

Sympathy flowers don’t have to be used strictly for funerals. They can be used for anyone grieving in any part of their life. If you find that someone you know and love is struggling with grief, don’t hesitate to send them a bouquet of flowers that expresses what you feel for them. Select one flower or mix and match to put together your perfect bouquet – they’ll love that you’re thinking about them in their trying time.

No matter what you choose, the ever expanding range of Kate Hill Sympathy Flowers will always help you express your love with style.