Popular Funeral Flowers in Singapore and Their Meaning

Lilies are known for their large, trumpet-shaped blooms and delicate fragrance, making them a popular choice for funerals. White lilies are especially common in funeral bouquets due to their association with purity and peace. Lilies are often arranged in standing sprays, wreaths, or casket covers, where they offer comfort to the grieving family.

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Cultural Significance: In Christian and Catholic funerals, white lilies symbolise purity, rebirth, and new beginnings. They are associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the spiritual purity of the Virgin Mary. Lilies are often placed on the casket or altar to honour the deceased, and represent the restored innocence of the soul after passing. 

Chrysanthemums prominently feature dense, layered petals, and white chrysanthemums are most commonly used in funerals. Chrysanthemums are typically used in wreaths or as part of a larger floral arrangement, commonly with roses and lilies, and they convey respect for the deceased and condolence for the family.

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Cultural Significance: In Asian culture, white chrysanthemums symbolise death, thus are used prominently in funerals. They are also used in other religions to represent lamentation and grief, and are often placed on the grave or around the altar, to express sorrow and respect for the departed. 

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The flower’s delicate nature also can represent the transient nature of life and existence, particularly for religions like Buddhism and Sok. For Buddhists, yellow chrysanthemums are common funeral flowers, representing the earth.

Orchids are prized for their exotic beauty and long-lasting nature. Various colours such as white, pink, and purple, are often used in funeral arrangements for their elegance and subtle fragrance. Orchids can be given as standalone bouquets or mixed with other flowers. Their presence in a funeral setting provides a sense of enduring love and strength to the grieving family.

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Cultural Significance: In Buddhist and Taoist funerals, orchids are associated with eternal love and the spiritual journey of the soul. These flowers are chosen for their symbolism of strength and the unbreakable bond between the living and the deceased. In Taoist ceremonies, orchids may be used to honour the spiritual integrity and resilience of the departed.

Roses are universally recognized symbols of love and respect. White roses are often chosen for funerals to convey purity and reverence, while red roses express love and grief. Their sweet fragrance and classic beauty make them a popular choice for casket sprays, standing arrangements, or bouquets that accompany the funeral procession.

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Cultural Significance: In Muslim funerals, simplicity and humility are key, and roses are often used to cover the body or decorate the grave. White roses, in particular, are placed on the grave as a symbol of purity and reverence. The use of roses in Muslim burials reflects the deep respect and love the family has for the deceased, honouring them in a simple yet profound way.

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It is important to note that guests are not advised to bring flowers to Muslim funerals, but are encouraged to give them after the procession.

Carnations are cherished for their ruffled petals and sweet, clove-like scent. White and pink are the most common colours chosen for funerals. Carnations are often included in mixed arrangements or as the primary flower in wreaths, symbolising love, devotion, and remembrance.

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Cultural Significance: In Soka funerals, carnations play a significant role in the altar decorations, symbolising the family's devotion to the deceased. The presence of these flowers during the chanting of prayers reflects the ongoing connection between the living and the departed soul, offering comfort through remembrance.

Gladioli are known for their tall, stately stems lined with blooms. Available in white, pink, and purple, these flowers are often used in standing sprays or large displays. Their striking appearance and mild fragrance are a representation of the strength and integrity of the deceased.

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Cultural Significance: In Christian funerals, gladioli symbolise the strength of character and moral integrity of the departed. They are often arranged in tall sprays to honour the steadfastness and virtues of the deceased, providing a sense of solace and respect to the grieving family.

Marigolds are vibrant flowers known for their bright orange and yellow hues. They have a strong, earthy scent and are often used in garlands or as part of larger floral arrangements. Marigolds are believed to have protective properties, and their presence in funerals is meant to guide the soul of the departed on its journey.

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Cultural Significance: In Hindu funerals, marigolds symbolise the cycle of life and death. They are used extensively in garlands and decorations for the body or funeral pyre, guiding the soul toward its next incarnation. The bright colours of marigolds reflect the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds, honouring the deceased's journey.

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It is important to note not to bring flowers to a Hindu funeral, as it is thought to interfere with their procession. 

If you’re attending a funeral, Parting Goodbyes has more articles on the etiquette of attending different religious funerals. 

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If you’re planning a funeral, it is greatly advised to read our article on how to safeguard yourself and prevent funeral directors from overcharging you. Our directories also serve as valuable tools to identify the funeral package based on your needs, where filtering and sorting is available. Average prices for each religious funeral are also available.

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Affliate: Flower Advisor

Our affliate for this article, Floweradvisor, features a wide selection of funeral flowers, with thoughtfully put together bouquets and wreaths to symbolise one’s condolence and to provide comfort to the grieving family. Same-day delivery throughout Singapore is also available and easily arranged. Some of their funeral flowers available are shown below: