Flowers of Remembrance | Funeral Flowers – MO BLUMEN
Funeral flowers & remembrance — flowers for difficult times
Which flowers for a funeral? Wreaths, grave decorations, colors, and etiquette
Flowers in remembrance
In times of grief, many people struggle to find the right words. Flowers cannot replace them — but they express sympathy, respect, and connection when words fall short.
Traditional funeral flowers
- White lilies: THE symbol of mourning and hope. They stand for the purity of the soul and eternal life. The classic funeral flower in Austria.
- White roses: Sincerity, respect, and farewell. Elegant and timeless.
- Chrysanthemums: The number one funeral flower in many European countries. In Austria, traditionally placed on graves for All Saints’ Day.
- Carnations: Stand for loyalty and deep connection. White carnations express sincere mourning.
- Forget-me-nots: “I will never forget you” — the name says it all.
- Calla lilies: Elegant, sculptural form. Symbolize beauty in farewell.
Colors and their meaning
- White: Purity, innocence, peace. The classic mourning color in Western Europe.
- Violet/Purple: Dignity, mourning, spirituality. The color of mourning since the Middle Ages.
- Soft pink: Gentle affection. Suitable for younger deceased persons or close female friends.
- Yellow: A reminder of sunny times. Can be fitting for a celebration of life.
- Red: Deep love and respect. Red roses for a partner or a close family member.
Types of funeral flowers
Funeral wreath
The wreath — with no beginning and no end — symbolizes eternity. Traditionally made from fir, moss, or ivy, and decorated with flowers and a mourning ribbon with a personal dedication.
Funeral arrangement
An elongated or round arrangement for standing or laying down. Less formal than a wreath, but just as respectful.
Funeral bouquet
A hand-tied bouquet — more personal and less formal. Well suited for someone close to you or as a condolence gift for the home.
Grave decorations
For the grave: bowls with plants (heather, chrysanthemums, pansies), candles, and seasonal arrangements. Especially important in Austria for All Saints’ Day (1 November).
Etiquette and guidance
- Ribbon: Funeral wreaths and arrangements usually include a mourning ribbon — with the sender’s name and a short dedication (e.g. “With heartfelt sympathy”, “Rest in peace”, “Forever in our hearts”).
- Delivery: Funeral flowers are usually delivered directly to the viewing chapel, church, or funeral home — not to the family’s home (unless they are meant as a personal sympathy gift).
- Timing: Ideally, have them delivered the day before or on the morning of the funeral service.
- Religious customs: In some religions and cultures, there are special rules (e.g. no flowers at Orthodox Jewish funerals, certain colors in Islam). If you are unsure, ask the florist or the family.
Personal instead of standard: Include the deceased person’s favorite flowers or favorite color in the funeral bouquet — it makes the flowers feel personal and shows that you truly knew them.
Sympathy flowers for the home
Flowers you can send to the grieving family at home or bring with you:
- A simple white bouquet: Lilies, roses, or chrysanthemums. Not too large — the family already has enough to organize.
- A potted plant: A peace lily (Spathiphyllum) or an orchid. Long-lasting and easy to care for — a lasting remembrance.
- Timing: Not on the day of the funeral (the family is occupied then), but in the days afterward — when the silence sets in and the grief feels heaviest.
Funeral flowers at MO BLUMEN Vienna
Funeral wreaths, arrangements, and sympathy bouquets — with personal advice.
Frequently asked questions
White lilies, white roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations are the classic choice. A funeral wreath or arrangement with a ribbon is customary for more formal occasions, while a hand-tied bouquet feels more personal. Lilac and violet are also suitable. It’s best to ask the florist for advice.
Classic wording: “With heartfelt sympathy — [Name]”, “Rest in peace”, “With love and gratitude”, “Forever in our hearts”, “You are deeply missed”. A personal message is always more meaningful than a standard phrase. The florist can help with the wording.
Yes — more and more often, obituary notices ask for donations instead of flowers. In that case, it’s best to honor the request and donate to the organization mentioned. If no such request is given, flowers are always appropriate. Some people choose to do both: a small donation and a simple bouquet.