The kind of flowers or colors no longer matters these days. For example, if your great grandma loved Sunflowers, these “cheery” flowers are perfectly OK to send to a funeral. Sending the deceased favorite flowers is a very appropriate way to show you put thought into your gift.

Unless you send a large funeral piece, family of the deceased will take your flowers home. So, a nice vase or basket arrangement of seasonal flowers that would brighten their home would be most appropriate. You don’t want to send anything that looks too depressing.

Another option is to send a basket of assorted plants. Any professional florist can make one of those. Most families would love a basket of plants, because they last longer than cut-flowers. In fact it is a nice thought to give a potted plant that will not die quickly, and could be a reminder of death for the grieving, as cut flowers can be.

White roses are associated with honor and reverence, which makes them a fitting memorial for a departed loved one. Funeral and sympathy arrangements traditionally incorporate white roses as a part of the tribute. As a symbol of remembrance, the white rose represents heavenly virtues and is an expression of spiritual love and respect. If you can find gladiolus, those are also traditionally a funeral flower. Chrysanthemums, lilies, carnations and daisies are all favorites for funeral arrangements.