Funeral Flowers: The History & Tradition in a Nutshell

Flowers are a part of every occasion from birth to death. However, have you thought about the history associated with funeral flowers?

Why do you think certain flowers are always used for weddings, while certain others are used for funerals?

Let’s look at the history of flower usage, and how it has evolved over the years.

Use of Flowers At Funerals

While covering a dead body with flowers seems like an old tradition, the primary reason for it was covering of odors of a decaying body. Depending on the environment, the time of death and the present status of the relatives, the quantity and type of flowers were varied.

History of Funeral Flowers

The history and traditions behind funeral flowers can be traced back to as early as 62,000 BC. With testing of soil samples, it has been found that flowers were placed on burial sites for funeral. In fact, this tradition has also been noted in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest human ritual.

Present Use of Funeral Flowers

Even today, we use flowers to signify death or mournful occasions. Since people mourning might find it tough to express their grief, flowers do the work for them if chosen properly. In fact, they can be a symbol of love, life, sympathy and even respect. It also creates a background adding to the dignity of the funeral service.

Symbolism

Flowers have several significance depending on the situation that it is being attached to. Flowers can represent love, dignity, sympathy and even eternity. In fact, the flower and its fragile nature signify human life. Just as proper conditions are necessary for a flower to grow, similarly, human beings need proper care to grow.

Additionally, the tradition of sending flowers to a deceased’s home or in memory of the deceased shows that the tradition is upheld. In many cultures, including American culture, flowers signify the dignity of a person. Moreover, with flowers, one can also pay condolence to the deceased. It helps to create memories of the deceased, and in turn, helps preserve the memories. Flowers play a key role here, as they put the memory in proper light.

Common Funeral Flowers

Some of the most common flowers that you can use for a funeral service are

• Lilies
• Peace Lily
• Orchids
• Roses
• Carnations
• Chrysanthemum

When it comes to death, it throws people into sadness. Sometimes, losing a loved one can even drive people to depression and suicide. Funeral actually signifies a period of sorrow and paying condolence to a person who is dead shows humanity.

Traditionally, people send in their condolences using flowers, and that is what makes them indispensible in the long run. The custom is archaic yet relevant in the present times. Flowers sent to the living signifies comfort, but when sent in the memory of a deceased person, it signifies respect and condolence.

Now that you have an idea of the history of flowers, make sure you choose the funeral flowers wisely the next time you are paying your condolences to a deceased person.