A Guide to Sympathy: What Colour Flowers Are Appropriate for a Funeral?

By the Team at Spearwood Florist

When we lose a loved one, words often fail us. In these moments of profound grief, flowers step in to bridge the gap. They serve as a universal language of emotion, offering comfort to the living and a respectful tribute to the departed. But when you are standing in a florist shop or browsing online during such a difficult time, the sheer variety of options can feel overwhelming.

One of the most common questions we receive here at Spearwood Florist is: “What colour flowers are appropriate for a funeral?”

Is red too romantic? Is yellow too cheerful? Is white the only “safe” option? The truth is, while tradition plays a significant role, the “right” colour is increasingly about the personality of the deceased and the message you wish to convey.

In this guide, we explore the traditional meanings behind floral colours, the rising trend of “celebration of life” arrangements in Perth, and how to choose the perfect tribute to say your final goodbye.

The Traditional Language of Colour

For centuries, floriography (the language of flowers) has been used to send unspoken messages. At funerals, colours carry distinct weights and meanings. Understanding these can help you select an arrangement that perfectly reflects your relationship with the deceased. (For a deeper dive into flower meanings, read our guide on Blooms with Meaning .)

1. White: The Universal Symbol of Peace

If you are unsure what to choose, white is the most traditional and widely accepted choice for funeral flowers. In Western culture, white represents purity, innocence, humility, and reverence. It symbolizes the restoration of the soul to a state of peace.

• Popular Choice: The White Lily (Lilium) is the quintessential funeral flower, symbolizing the restored innocence of the soul. White Roses, Carnations, and Chrysanthemums are also staples in wreaths and casket sprays.

• Best For: Any relationship—family, friends, or colleagues. It is a colour of high respect.

2. Red: Love, Courage, and Respect

While we often associate red with romantic love, in the context of mourning, deep crimson and red hues symbolize profound respect, strength, and grief.

• The Nuance: A casket spray of deep red roses tells a story of intense love and a bond that cannot be broken. However, red can also represent courage, making it a fitting tribute for veterans or those who lived life with a fiery spirit.

• Best For: Spouses, partners, and very close family members.

3. Pink: Grace, Gentleness, and Appreciation

Pink flowers are softer than red and carry a meaning of grace, gentleness, and sympathy. They are a popular choice for funeral services as they are not as stark as white nor as intense as red.

• The Meaning: Light pink implies innocence and sweetness. Darker pinks (magenta) express gratitude and appreciation for the deceased’s life.

• Best For: Mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and aunts. It is traditionally seen as a feminine tribute, though this is changing.

4. Yellow: Friendship and New Beginnings

Yellow is a tricky colour in funeral etiquette. Traditionally, it represents sunlight, friendship, and new beginnings. In the past, some considered it too “cheerful” for a somber occasion. However, today, yellow is embraced for its ability to lift the spirits of the grieving family.

• The Shift: Yellow flowers, such as sunflowers or yellow roses, celebrate the life lived rather than focusing solely on the loss. They say, “Thank you for the light you brought into my life.”

• Best For: Close friends, or for someone who had a bubbly, sunny personality.

5. Purple: Dignity and Royalty

Purple has long been associated with royalty, but in a funeral setting, it represents dignity, sorrow, and admiration. It is a colour that commands respect.

• The Aesthetic: When mixed with white, purple creates a striking, elegant contrast that feels very soothing. Lavender shades represent femininity and grace, while deep violets represent sorrow and fidelity.

• Best For: A patriarch or matriarch of a family, or a respected member of the community.

6. Blue: Sadness, Calm, and Peace

Blue flowers are rarer in nature, making them a special and thoughtful choice. Blue represents the sky and the sea, evoking feelings of vastness, peace, and calm.

• The Feeling: Blue Hydrangeas, Delphiniums, or Irises are often used to express deep condolences and sadness. In a psychological sense, blue is a cooling colour, helping to soothe the high emotions of a funeral service.

• Best For: Men (traditionally), or anyone who had a deep connection to the ocean or nature.

The Western Australian Touch: Natives and Earth Tones

Here in Perth, we are seeing a beautiful shift away from imported blooms toward our stunning Western Australian wildflowers. Native arrangements are increasingly popular for funerals because they represent resilience, “returning to the earth,” and a connection to the Australian landscape.

Colours in native arrangements tend to be warmer and earthier:

• Rust and Orange: Banksias and Pincushions represent energy and the rugged Australian spirit.

• Sage Green and Silver: Eucalyptus foliage provides a calming, aromatic backdrop that represents eternal life (as evergreens).

• Deep Burgundies: Kangaroo Paws and Proteas offer a unique, architectural beauty that feels grounded and stoic.

Best For: Someone who loved the outdoors, gardening, or was proud of their Aussie heritage. Native flowers also dry beautifully, allowing the family to keep the arrangement long after the service.

Cultural Considerations in Perth

We live in a vibrant, multicultural community in Spearwood and Cockburn. It is important to remember that colours have different meanings in different cultures.

• Asian Traditions: In many Chinese and Buddhist traditions, white and yellow are the standard funeral colours.

• Hindu Traditions: Garlands often feature orange (marigolds) and white, representing purity and the fire of the cremation ceremony.

If you are attending a service for a culture you are unfamiliar with, it is always safer to stick to white or contact us at Spearwood Florist. We can guide you on the appropriate etiquette.

The Rise of “Celebration of Life” Colours

Funerals are changing. Many families are now opting for a “Celebration of Life” rather than a traditional mourning service. In these instances, the family might request that guests wear bright colours, and the floral tributes follow suit.

We have created bespoke tributes featuring:

• Football Team Colours: Blue and Gold for West Coast Eagles fans, or Purple for Fremantle Dockers supporters.

• Rainbows: To represent the LGBTQ+ community or simply a vibrant, colourful soul.

• Favourite Colours: If the deceased loved gardening and their favourite colour was orange, an all-orange spray is a beautiful, personal nod to their passion.

The Rule of Thumb: If the family asks for “bright and colourful,” do not be afraid to send a mixed bouquet of Gerbera daisies or bright lilies. It shows you are listening to their wishes.

Choosing the Right Arrangement for the Colour

Once you have an idea of the colour, the type of arrangement dictates how those colours are displayed.

1. Casket Sprays (Family Only): These sit on top of the coffin. They usually set the tone for the service.

2. Standing Sprays and Wreaths: These are displayed on easels around the casket. A white wreath is formal; a colourful heart-shaped wreath is personal and affectionate.

3. Sheaths and Bouquets: These are often sent to the home of the bereaved. Soft pastels are excellent here as they are soothing to have in the house. (Browse our Sympathy Bouquets for suitable options).

Summary: Which Colour Should You Choose?

If you are still undecided, use this quick reference guide based on your relationship to the deceased:

• For a Spouse or Partner: Deep Red (Love) or their favourite colour.

• For a Parent or Grandparent: White (Respect), Pink (Grace), or Purple (Dignity).

• For a Child: White, Soft Pink, or Baby Blue (Innocence).

• For a Best Friend: Yellow (Friendship) or a bright, colourful mix (Memories).

• For a Colleague or Associate: White or Cream (Professional respect) or Natives (Neutral).

• For a Military Veteran: Red, White, and Blue (Patriotism) or a Red Poppy wreath.

Final Thoughts from Spearwood Florist

Ultimately, there is no “wrong” colour if the intention behind it is genuine. Flowers are a visual representation of the love you hold for the person who has passed. Whether you choose the solemn dignity of white lilies or the vibrant energy of orange banksias, the family will appreciate the gesture of support during their time of loss.

At Spearwood Florist, we understand that ordering funeral flowers is an emotional task. We are here to make it as simple as possible. We deliver to all funeral directors and cemeteries in Fremantle, Karrakatta, and the surrounding suburbs.

If you are unsure what to send, give us a call or visit us in-store. Tell us a little about the person you have lost, and we will help you craft a tribute that honors their memory in the perfect colour.

Spearwood Florist – Here for you in life’s most difficult moments.

Browse our Sympathy Collection online or call us today for personalised advice.