When words are not enough, flowers have a timeless way of expressing emotions that go beyond what language can convey. If someone you know is going through a tough time. Whether it’s a heartbreak or the loss of a loved one, sending a bouquet of sympathy flowers is a kind way to show that you care about them and their feelings.
Sympathy flowers are more than just a kind gesture. They represent love, respect, and the enduring connections we share with those we’ve lost. But with so many options available, how do you choose flowers that truly convey your feelings? This guide will help you explore the best sympathy flowers, their meanings, and how they can offer solace during life’s most difficult times.
Best Sympathy Flowers
1. Forget-Me-Nots (Myosotis)

Forget-Me-Nots symbolize remembrance and enduring love, making them a touching choice for sympathy flowers. Their delicate blue petals evoke feelings of peace and nostalgia, perfect for honoring someone’s memory. These flowers also signify a promise to keep the departed close to the heart, offering a comforting message during times of loss.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Can grow in zones 3 to 8, suitable for temperate climates.
- Size: Grows up to 6-12 inches tall.
- Care Tips: Plant Forget-Me-Nots in well-drained soil with partial sunlight and keep the soil consistently moist to maintain their vibrant blooms.
2. Daffodils (Narcissus)

Daffodils are associated with renewal and hope, bringing a sense of optimism even during difficult times. Their bright yellow blooms provide a subtle reminder that life continues, and healing is possible. As a symbol of new beginnings, daffodils are a thoughtful choice for expressing support and encouragement to grieving loved ones.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Thrives in zones 4 to 9, adaptable to various regions.
- Size: Reaches heights of 6-20 inches.
- Care Tips: Place daffodils in a vase with fresh water and re-cut the stems every couple of days to prolong their life. Avoid mixing with other flowers immediately, as daffodils release a sap that can harm them.
3. Orchids (Orchidaceae)

The orchid belongs to the family Orchidaceae. They stand out with their elegance and grace, often symbolizing eternal love and strength. The Phalaenopsis orchid, in particular, is a popular choice for condolence bouquets due to its enduring beauty.
Orchids are available in various colors, with white orchids representing purity and pink orchids symbolizing sympathy and admiration. They are often included in sympathy bouquets to provide comfort and make meaningful connections.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Best suited for zones 10 to 11 but can thrive indoors in any region.
- Size: Varies depending on the species; Phalaenopsis orchids often grow up to 20-36 inches tall.
- Care Tips: Place them in indirect sunlight and water them sparingly, ensuring the roots are well-drained. Avoid overwatering to keep the plant healthy.
4. Roses (Rosa)

Roses are a classic expression of love and honor, making them a versatile option for sympathy flowers. White roses convey innocence and reverence, while red symbolizes deep love and admiration.
Yellow roses can signify friendship and support, ideal for comforting a grieving friend. Arranged alone or as part of a bouquet, roses are always a meaningful gesture for a sad occasion. Pink flowers, such as pink roses, can bring warmth and tenderness to the arrangement.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Adaptable to zones 3 to 11 depending on the variety.
- Size: Bushes range from 1-20 feet tall.
- Care Tips: Trim rose stems at an angle and remove leaves below the waterline. Change the water frequently to keep them fresh for longer.
5. Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis)

Hyacinths are known for their strong fragrance and brilliant colors, carrying messages of peace and devotion. Particularly, The purple hyacinth symbolizes sorrow and regret, making it ideal for sympathy. Their striking appearance and heartfelt symbolism offer comfort during difficult times while cut flowers like hyacinths add beauty to wreaths and condolence bouquets.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Hardy in zones 3 to 9, tolerating cooler climates.
- Size: Grows between 6-12 inches tall.
- Care Tips: Keep hyacinths in a cool location and ensure the vase water is changed regularly. Recut stems at an angle for better water absorption.
6. Hibiscuses (Hibiscus)

Hibiscus, a flowering plant in the mallow family (Malvaceae), is known for its large, showy flowers. Hibiscus flowers, with their tropical charm and striking petals, symbolize delicate beauty and fleeting moments. Offering hibiscuses as sympathy flowers can provide a sense of solace and reflection, often included as condolence flowers or in funeral arrangements.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Suitable for zones 5 to 9 outdoors; can be grown indoors elsewhere.
- Size: Reaches heights of 3-8 feet.
- Care Tips: Hibiscus plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and require consistent watering to keep the soil moist. Protect them from cold temperatures for optimal growth.
7. Lilies (Lilium)

Lilies are perhaps the most popular and traditional funeral flowers due to their association with purity, renewal, and the soul’s return to a peaceful state. White lilies are commonly used in funeral flower arrangements, symbolizing the innocence of the departed.
Their serene beauty and profound meaning make them a comforting choice for grieving families. Lilies are a beautiful way to express condolences and honor loved ones, making them an excellent choice for a funeral service.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Best grown in zones 4 to 9, covering most temperate areas.
- Size: Can grow 2-6 feet tall depending on the variety.
- Care Tips: Keep away from direct sunlight and ensure the water in the vase is clean. Remove the pollen stamens to avoid staining petals and extend their freshness.
8. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum)

In many cultures, chrysanthemums are specifically associated with grief and mourning. In Asia, they symbolize lamentation and honor while in Europe, they are exclusively used in funeral arrangements.
Their understated elegance conveys a message of respect and remembrance, making them a suitable option for expressing condolences. Chrysanthemums are often included in sympathy bouquets for their various meanings and blossoms that provide comfort to the bereaved.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Hardy in zones 5 to 9, popular in many regions.
- Size: Varies; typically 1-3 feet tall.
- Care Tips: Place chrysanthemums in a cool location with indirect sunlight. Change the water regularly and trim the stems to keep them fresh.
9. Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus)

Carnations are deeply symbolic and widely used in sympathy arrangements. White carnations represent pure love and innocence while pink carnations signify remembrance. Red carnations convey admiration and affection, making them versatile for various emotional expressions.
Their long-lasting blooms also symbolize enduring support, making them an excellent choice for memorial services or a funeral home.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Suitable for zones 3 to 9, providing wide adaptability.
- Size: Grows up to 18-24 inches tall.
- Care Tips: Keep in a vase with fresh water and change the water every two days. Trim the stems slightly to help them absorb water efficiently.
10. Lilacs (Syringa)

Lilacs offer a poignant way to express sympathy, symbolizing the emotions of first love and memories. The soft lavender hue of lilacs conveys a sense of tranquility and nostalgia. Their delicate blooms and soothing fragrance provide a comforting presence, helping to ease the sorrow of loss.
Lilacs are appropriate flowers for honoring the deceased and supporting the bereaved. Daisies, with their simple beauty, can also be combined with lilacs for added warmth and meaning.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Thrives in zones 3 to 7, preferring cooler climates.
- Size: Reaches heights of 8-15 feet.
- Care Tips: Lilacs thrive in cool water. Remove any leaves below the waterline and keep them in a shaded area to extend their vase life.
What Do Sympathy Flowers Different Colors Represent?
When selecting flowers for sympathy, the color of the blooms plays a crucial role in expressing emotions and offering comfort during times of grief.
Red
Represents love and beauty, often given to honor a lost loved one.
White
Symbolizes new beginnings, remembrance, and purity; suitable for mourning a young person.
Yellow
Conveys light, hope, and friendship, offering comfort in dark times.
Pink
Denotes femininity and beauty, chosen for mourning a wife or mother.
Purple
Signifies loyalty, respect, and unwavering support in times of sorrow.
Conclusion
Sympathy flowers serve as a heartfelt gesture to honor the memory of a loved one and offer comfort to those grieving. Each flower in a floral arrangement carries its unique meaning, allowing you to convey your sentiments in a deeply personal and meaningful way.
Whether it’s the enduring remembrance of Forget-Me-Nots, the hopefulness of daffodils, or the purity of lilies, these blooms provide solace and emotional support during life’s most challenging moments. When choosing sympathy flowers, consider their symbolism and the message you wish to convey, ensuring your gesture is both thoughtful and comforting.
Including sympathy arrangements with vibrant colors or white flowers can be a lasting tribute to the deceased, offering peace and compassion to their family and friends. Sending flowers with a sympathy card is a beautiful way to show respect and support during a sad occasion, reflecting on the connections we share with those we love.