What Is the History of Funeral Flowers?

Death, unfortunately, is an integral part of everyone's life, and funeral rites become especially important when someone close to us dies. When someone we love dies, it is only natural to want to mark their life with a special tribute. For many people, this tribute takes the form of funeral flowers. 

In ancient times, plants were endowed with various symbolic meanings, including being perceived as guides to the spirit world. Today, living flowers are carried to funerals to say farewell, to express grief and pain of loss. 

But what is the detailed history of funeral flowers? Why are they so important? And what are the different kinds of traditional funeral flowers? Read on and we will let you in on the historical mystery!

What Is the Symbolism of Flowers at Funerals?

The history of flowers at funerals is very long and varied. Flowers have been used to mark the passing of loved ones for centuries in many different cultures. Flowers are often seen as a symbol of life and hope, making them an ideal way to honor a departed life. 

In ancient times, people often used flowers in funeral ceremonies. Flowers were thought to help the dead people's souls find their way to the afterlife. In some cultures, it was believed that flowers have magical properties and scare away evil spirits.

Flowers are still an essential part of many funerals and memorial services. You can use them to decorate a funeral home, church or burial site. They can also be given to the deceased's family as a sign of support and sympathy. Although funeral flowers' history may differ in every culture, their meaning is always the same - a beautiful tribute to a departed life.

What Is the Origin of Funeral Flowers?

The beginning history of flowers for dead people goes back to antiquity. Flowers have always been associated with life and death. In many cultures, they are considered symbols of rebirth and a new beginning. For this reason, they are often used in funeral and memorial services.

Funeral flowers can be attributed to the ancient Egyptians. The Egyptians believed that flowers had magical properties and could bring the dead back to life. They often placed flowers in the tomb of the deceased. The traditional funeral flowers for the Egyptians were white lilies.

The history of funeral flowers can also be traced back to ancient Greece. The Greeks often decorated their dead with garlands of flowers. They believed flowers would help the dead find their way to the afterlife. The most popular funeral flowers among the Greeks were laurel leaf, ivy, and rosemary.

Flowers for dead people were also used in ancient Rome. The Romans often placed flowers on the graves of their loved ones. They believed that flowers would bring peace and comfort to the dead. 

However, if we forget about the historical value and dip into reality, the flowers, for the most part, were used as a natural fragrance. The fact is that when people didn't yet know what cremation was or storing a corpse in a refrigerator, the deceased's body could begin to decompose before the funeral. Different flowers, and their scents, helped hide the cadaveric smell before burial.

Meaning of Flowers at Funerals in Different Cultures

Each culture has its unique way of using flowers in funerals and memorial services.

• White chrysanthemums are a symbol of mourning and grief. They are often given to the deceased's family as a sign of sympathy. In China, white chrysanthemums are often used in funeral ceremonies.
• In Japan, white lotus flowers are traditionally used at funerals. The white lotus is a symbol of purity and rebirth. It is often used to decorate the funeral home or burial site.
• In India, marigolds are commonly used in funeral ceremonies. Gold marigolds are a symbol of hope and new beginnings. They are often used to decorate the funeral pyre.
• In the United States, roses are often used at funerals. Roses come in a variety of colors, each with its unique meaning. 

• Red roses usually symbolize love and respect. 
• Yellow roses often symbolize friendship and support. 
• White roses usually symbolize purity and innocence. 

Flowers have a long and varied history of meaning at funerals in different cultures to mark the passing of loved ones. 

Read our brief guide for buying funeral flowers in the Rosaholic Blog.

Rosaholics Will Help You 

Rosaholics understand that when it comes to funerals, you want to send the right message. That’s why we have a wide selection of funeral flowers that will express your sentiments perfectly. Our team is here to help you if you need help choosing the right bouquet. 

We understand the importance of sending the right message at this challenging time and are committed to helping you do that. Choose Rosaholics for all your funeral flower needs.

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