Top 25 Flowers that Symbolize Remembrance
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There are moments in life that are etched in our memories forever. We hold memories tightly, cherishing every detail, sensation, and emotion. Memories of loved ones no longer with us are some of the most precious memories. These memories are a testament to their impact on our lives and remind us of our love.
One way to honor the memories of our loved ones is through flowers. Flowers convey sentiments and emotions; many flowers symbolize remembrance. These flowers are a beautiful way to pay tribute to those who have touched our lives and left us too soon.
Whether you honor your loved ones with a flower or an entire bouquet, remembrance is powerful. Remembrance allows us to keep the memories of our loved ones alive and to pay tribute to the impact that they had on our lives. Here are 25 flowers that symbolize remembrance.
1. Lilies
Lilies have long been used as a symbol of remembrance, especially in Western countries. These delicate flowers have a long history of representing innocence, purity, and grace, making them a perfect tribute to loved ones who have passed away.
The white lily, in particular, is a popular choice for funerals and other occasions of remembrance. Its snow-white petals and delicate fragrance symbolize the restoration of innocence after death, providing comfort and solace to those who grieve. In fact, the white lily has been used in funerary art and literature for centuries, with its symbolism appearing in everything from ancient Greek mythology to modern-day poetry.
Lilies have also been associated with various religious traditions, including Christianity, where they are often associated with the Virgin Mary. According to Christian tradition, lilies sprouted from the ground where the sweat of Jesus fell on the ground in his final moments. As a result, lilies represent the sorrow and grief accompanying loss and the hope and promise of new life.
2. Marigolds
In Mexico, the marigold flower, or cempasuchil in the Aztec language, is a powerful symbol of remembrance. During the Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead celebrations, marigolds honor and remember loved ones who have passed away each year.
The bright orange and yellow flowers are offered to guide the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living. They are often used to create elaborate altars or ofrendas decorated with candles, food, and other items loved by the deceased.
Marigolds have a long history of significance in Mexican culture, dating back to the Aztec civilization. The flower was believed to have magical properties and was often used in religious ceremonies and medicinal remedies. The Aztecs also used the flower to honor their dead, believing that the bright colors and intense aroma would guide their spirits back to the world of the living.
Today, marigolds are still a beloved part of Mexican culture and are used in various ways to honor the dead. The flowers bring comfort and solace to grieving people, reminding them that their loved ones are still with them in spirit.
3. Chrysanthemums
In Japan, chrysanthemums are a popular symbol of remembrance and are often associated with the autumn season. These beautiful flowers have been cultivated in Japan for over a thousand years and are used in various ways to honor loved ones who have passed away.
The chrysanthemum’s significance in Japanese culture dates back to the imperial family, symbolizing power and prestige. The samurai class later adopted the flower to symbolize honor and loyalty. Today, chrysanthemums honor the dead, including funerary arrangements and gravesite offerings.
Chrysanthemums are also an important part of the O-Bon festival, held in Japan each year, to honor the spirits of the dead. During the festival, families often visit gravesites and leave offerings of food and flowers, including chrysanthemums.
The chrysanthemum’s significance as a symbol of remembrance has also spread beyond Japan, with people worldwide using the flower to honor their loved ones who have passed away. Its intricate beauty and long history make it a powerful symbol of the enduring nature of memory and love.
4. Lotus flower
In India, the lotus flower is a popular remembrance symbol deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and tradition. The lotus is a unique flower that grows in muddy waters and rises above the surface to bloom into a stunningly beautiful flower. This symbolism has made it a popular symbol of spiritual growth and enlightenment.
In Hinduism, the lotus is associated with many Hindu deities, including Vishnu, Lakshmi, and Brahma. The flower is believed to symbolize purity, divinity, and spiritual awakening. It’s often used in religious ceremonies and offerings to the gods.
Many Hindus believe that the souls of the departed travel on a journey after death. The lotus is also associated with rebirth and renewal. Its ability to rise from the murky waters and bloom into a beautiful flower has made it a powerful symbol of hope and new beginnings. In this way, the lotus can serve as a comforting reminder that death is not the end but a new beginning.
5. Sampaguita
In the Philippines, the Sampaguita flower is a popular remembrance symbol of purity, simplicity, and humility. This small, delicate flower is native to Southeast Asia and is known for its sweet fragrance, making it a popular choice for garlands, bouquets, and other floral arrangements.
Sampaguita is often used in Filipino funeral rites to symbolize respect and reverence for the deceased. It’s common for mourners to offer Sampaguita garlands as a sign of love and tribute to the departed. The Sampaguita flowers provide a sweet and fragrant reminder of the life that was lived.
Sampaguita is also a symbol of friendship and love in other parts of the world. Sampaguita’s symbolic importance in the Philippines can be traced back to its association with its national hero, Jose Rizal.
Sampaguita’s delicate beauty and sweet fragrance serve as a poignant reminder of the beauty of life. The flower also reminds us to cherish the memories of those who have touched our hearts.
6. Carnations
In Russia, carnations are a popular symbol of remembrance and are often used to honor loved ones who have passed away. These beautiful flowers are available in different hues, including white, pink, and red, and are known for their delicate beauty and sweet fragrance.
Carnations have a long history of significance in Russian culture, dating back to ancient times. The flower was believed to have magical properties and was often used in medicinal remedies and religious ceremonies. In later years, carnations became associated with love and romance and were often used in courtship rituals.
In the modern era, carnations have become a popular symbol of remembrance in Russia. Carnations often adorn the graves of those who have served in the military. Red carnations are often used to commemorate the sacrifices of fallen soldiers and are placed on gravesites and war memorials as a sign of respect and tribute.
7. Thistle
In Ireland, the thistle flower is a popular remembrance symbol of the country’s history and folklore. This spiky, purple flower is known for its sharp, prickly leaves and has become a powerful symbol of resilience, determination, and strength.
The thistle’s significance in Irish culture dates back to ancient times when it was believed to have magical properties and was used in various medicinal remedies. In later years, the thistle became a reminder of the country’s struggle for independence, with many Irish nationalists adopting it as a symbol of resistance against British rule.
Many members of the armed forces wear a thistle in military funerals and commemorations as a sign of respect and tribute. It symbolizes strength and resilience, overcoming adversity and thriving in the harshest conditions. Its sharp, prickly leaves remind us of the challenges we face in life, and its vibrant purple color symbolizes hope and perseverance.
8. Red Poppy
In the United Kingdom, the red poppy is a powerful symbol of remembrance, representing sacrifice. The British wear red poppy to remember those who have served in the military. This beautiful flower is a poignant reminder of the devastating toll of war and the enduring power of memory.
The use of the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance in the UK dates back to World War I when the flower was noted as being one of the first plants to bloom on the battlefields of Europe. The flower’s vibrant red color and delicate beauty starkly contrasted the destruction and devastation of war, making it a powerful symbol of hope and remembrance.
Today, the red poppy is a flower loved by millions of people in the UK and worldwide as a sign of respect and tribute. Red poppy can be worn as a badge, a decoration, and a symbol of support for veterans.
The Royal British Legion, a charity that supports veterans and their families, is the leading organization behind the use of the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance in the UK. The charity’s annual Poppy Appeal, which takes place before Remembrance Day, raises millions of pounds to support veterans and their families.
9. Protea Flower
In South Africa, the Protea flower is a powerful symbol of remembrance and represents the country’s unique beauty and rich cultural heritage. This stunningly beautiful flower is known for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and bold, striking appearance.
In addition to their aesthetic value, Proteas are deeply ingrained in South African culture and tradition. Protea flowers are a way to honor and remember those who have passed away. South Africans often place them on gravesites as a sign of respect and tribute. They are also used in other cultural and religious ceremonies, including weddings, baptisms, and other important life events.
10. Roses
Roses are a popular symbol of remembrance, representing love, honor, and respect for those who have passed away. They are also a symbol of remembrance in the form of reminders of special milestones like marriage or relationship anniversaries.
Today, roses are a common way to remember our love for others, a universal sign of love. They are also used in other cultural and religious ceremonies, including weddings, baptisms, and other important life events.
11. Forget-me-nots
Forget-me-nots are beautiful and beloved flowers that symbolize remembrance and memorialization worldwide. These delicate blue flowers stun with their vibrant color and sweet fragrance.
The origins of the forget-me-not as a symbol of remembrance are unclear. The love for Forget-me-nots dates back to medieval Europe, where the flower was associated with undying love and remembrance.
Folklore states that a knight and his lady were walking along a riverbank when he picked a bouquet of forget-me-nots. As he handed her the flowers, he fell into the river and was swept away, calling out, “forget me not” to his lady love.
Today, forget-me-nots are used in various ways to symbolize remembrance and memorialization. They are often used in funeral services and memorial gardens as a sign of love and tribute to those who have passed away and are frequently included in sympathy bouquets and arrangements.
12. Blue Cornflowers
Blue cornflowers, or bachelor’s buttons, symbolize remembrance and solidarity in France. These bright blue flowers have delicate, papery petals, making them a favorite of gardeners and flower enthusiasts worldwide.
The blue cornflower has a rich and interesting history as a symbol of remembrance. French soldiers wore the flower during World War I to signify solidarity and remembrance for fallen comrades. The flower’s bright blue color, which was similar to the color of the French military uniform, made it a natural choice for this purpose.
Today, the blue cornflower is still used in France as a symbol of remembrance and solidarity, particularly around Armistice Day (November 11), which marks the end of World War I. It’s often included in memorial wreaths and bouquets and worn as a symbol of support for veterans and active-duty military personnel.
13. Hyacinths
Hyacinths are beautiful and fragrant flowers that have come to symbolize remembrance in many cultures worldwide. The hyacinth’s origins as a remembrance symbol are unclear, but historians and researchers date it back to ancient Greek mythology.
According to legend, the god of light Apollo killed a young man named Hyacinthus, and from his blood sprang a beautiful flower with delicate petals and a sweet scent. In the language of flowers, the hyacinth came to represent both sorrow and forgiveness.
In addition to their symbolic significance, hyacinths are a popular garden plant known for their easy care and vibrant blooms. They are a favorite of gardeners worldwide, and their enduring popularity as a symbol of remembrance speaks to their timeless appeal as a beautiful and meaningful flower.
14. Tulips
These colorful and graceful flowers are known for their delicate petals and distinctive shape and have long been associated with love, loyalty, and the passage of time.
The tulip’s origins as a remembrance symbol are unclear, but it’s believed to date back to the Netherlands.
The Dutch loved the tulip and praised it as one of the most beautiful flowers. Unsurprisingly, they used it in lavish gardens and floral displays for happy and sad occasions. In the language of flowers, the tulip came to represent love, passion, and deep emotion.
15. Gladioli
Gladioli, gladiolus, or sword lilies are striking and elegant flowers that symbolize remembrance and strength in many cultures worldwide. These tall and stately flowers have distinctive shapes and vibrant colors.
During ancient Rome, gladiolus was popular for funerals and memorial services. On other occasions, Romans would throw them at gladiators that survived a fight to the death. Romans saw the gladiolus as a symbol of strength in the face of loss.
16. Orchids
Orchids serve as flowers of remembrance in various cultures and contexts. These exotic blooms stand out for their intricate shapes, diverse colors, and long-lasting blossoms, making them fitting symbols for honoring and commemorating the lives of loved ones.
Numerous species of orchids exist, and their meanings vary depending on the type and color. Their exotic and delicate nature can evoke deep admiration and appreciation for the person being remembered.
In certain cultures, orchids hold specific meanings that contribute to their association with remembrance. As a remembrance flower, an orchid’s refined beauty and grace serve as poignant reminders of the unique qualities and characteristics of the person we remember.
The long-lasting nature of the blooms also represents enduring love and the everlasting memories shared with the departed.
17. Japanese Anemones
Japanese anemones are stunning flowers that have become a symbol of remembrance and memorialization in many cultures. These delicate and graceful flowers are known for their simple beauty and elegance and have a long history of use in traditional Japanese gardens.
In Japanese culture, the anemone is a reminder of death and mourning. The flower’s delicate beauty and graceful movements reflect life’s fleeting nature and the importance of cherishing every moment.
18. Fuchsias
Fuchsias symbolize remembrance and commemoration in some cultures with their beautiful and unique appearance. People recognize these flowers for their vibrant colors and delicate, pendulous blooms that resemble dancing ballerinas.
Fuchsias bloom for an extended period and withstand harsh weather conditions and other challenges. In some cultures, people use fuchsias to tribute to loved ones who have passed away. They may include them in funeral arrangements or in memorial gardens.
19. Freesias
Freesias are native to South Africa and were first introduced to Europe in the 18th century. Freesias are known for their sweet, citrusy scent and come in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple.
Freesias are a popular gift for loved ones who are grieving, as they are believed to symbolize the hope of new beginnings and the comfort of memories.
20. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are beautiful and iconic flowers associated with remembrance and honor in many cultures worldwide. These stunning flowers have large, bright yellow blooms and tall stalks and have long been admired for their beauty and vitality.
The use of sunflowers as a symbol of remembrance dates back to ancient Greek mythology, where they were associated with the sun god Helios and his enduring power and strength. In modern times, sunflowers represent various qualities, including loyalty, strength, and endurance.
Sunflower is an important crop in many regions worldwide and sustains millions. This is why sunflower can be a great choice for a flower that comforts those that need comfort. Sunflowers remind us of the resilience and strength we need during loss.
21. Lavender
Lavender, a beloved plant, holds love, healing, and remembrance associations. People appreciate this fragrant and beautiful herb for its calming properties and soothing aroma, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy and relaxation techniques.
Besides its physical and emotional benefits, lavender serves as a symbol of remembrance and tribute. During World War I, people used lavender to honor fallen soldiers, and it remains a popular choice for memorials and remembrance ceremonies today.
22. Calla Lillies
Calla lilies are beautiful and elegant flower that has become a popular symbol of remembrance and sympathy. These delicate flowers are known for their graceful shape and pure white color, often associated with purity, innocence, and sympathy.
In Christian tradition, the Calla lily is sometimes associated with the Virgin Mary and is often used in religious ceremonies and memorials. Today, calla lilies are often used in funeral services and memorial gardens as a sign of love and tribute to those who have passed away.
23. Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera daisies, or Gerberas, are colorful flowers from South Africa; Gerberas are now popular worldwide and many love them for their long-lasting blooms. Gerbera is a good choice for funerals because it has a long-lasting flower that perfectly adorns someone’s resting place.
Gerberas symbolize remembrance because of their association with happiness, joy, and celebration. In many cultures, flowers mark important occasions such as births, weddings, and graduations.
24. Sweet Alyssum
Sweet Alyssum is a delicate and charming flower that holds a special place as a symbol of remembrance. Known for its sweet fragrance and clusters of small, white flowers, Sweet Alyssum is a traditional flower that many use as a tribute to those who have passed away.
Sweet Alyssum is native to the Mediterranean region. The flower’s association with remembrance stems from the legend of Adonis, a handsome youth killed by a wild boar. According to the myth, wherever drops of his blood fell, a sweet alyssum plant sprouted, reminding him of his beauty and untimely death.
25. Ranunculus
Ranunculus comes with layers of silky pastel petals. This flower is a perfect symbol of remembrance because it reflects life and death in its color scheme. The softer tones of Ranunculus are ideal for funeral wreaths and memorial flower arrangements.
The ranunculus flower symbolizes charm and attractiveness in the language of flowers. Ranunculus can serve as a reminder of the endearing qualities and personality traits of the person being memorialized. Additionally, ranunculus blooms come in various colors, each with meaning.
For instance, red Ranunculus signifies deep love and respect, while white symbolizes innocence and purity, so you can choose different tones to reflect the personality of your loved ones.
Wrapping Up
Remembering loved ones who have passed away is an important part of grieving. Flowers are a beautiful choice to show love and to pay your respects. Each flower in this collection has unique symbolism and meaning, allowing us to choose the perfect tribute to our loved ones.
Whether it’s a simple bouquet or an elaborate arrangement, remembrance through flowers is a beautiful and powerful way to pay tribute to our loved ones. May these flowers serve as a reminder of our shared love for those that mean a lot to us, and may they bring comfort and solace to those who grieve.
