Presenting flowers to a family at a funeral is a long-standing tradition. While some, like lilies and carnations, are common, other types of funeral flowers are just as meaningful and poignant. If you wish to express your compassion, sympathies, and love, here are a few unexpected types of arrangements that make pleasant alternatives to the standard options.

A Guide to Unusual Funeral Flowers

1. Sunflower

With their sunny hue and generally cheerful disposition, sunflowers don’t exactly resonate with the typical concept of a funeral. However, as more and more families take the opportunity to plan celebrations of life instead of somber affairs, the sunflower can play an important role in the proceedings. It’s a warm, thoughtful flower to give, and it may bring a smile to the recipient’s face.

2. Delphinium

Notable for its rich blue hue, delphinium can be used as an accent to a more traditional funeral flower bouquet or given on its own. It’s bold, yet not overpowering in an inappropriate way, and representative of renewal and dignity. The rich, dramatic color lends it an attractive appearance, and it’s a wonderful choice to honor someone who considered blue a favorite color.

3. Anemone

Ancient lore suggests that anemone fell from Aphrodite’s tears when she mourned the passing of Adonis. The flower is said to bring good fortune and provide protection from evil, which makes it a lovely selection for a family in mourning. This funeral flower is striking on its own, and won’t require other competing flowers to create an attractive arrangement.

4. Protea

Proteas are unique options for funeral flowers, thanks in great part to their unusual appearance. The petals spring upward and inward, appearing to embrace the inside. They can easily be worked into an elegant flower arrangement if you want to create a bouquet that is memorable but not over the top.

5. Birds of Paradise

Known in particular for their exotic slant, birds of paradise flowers are especially striking. They’re representative of joy—which makes them surprisingly fitting for a funeral or memorial when they honor the loved one’s spirit. These beautiful, eye-catching flowers are an excellent choice for a person who appreciated bright colors or artwork.

Swan Floral & Gift Shop is the leading provider for funeral flowers in northern KY and Cincinnati, OH. They’ve served the area since 1921, and they offer floral arrangements that are perfect for any service. Whether you prefer something traditional or unexpected, you’ll find it here. The florist also offers flowers for other occasions, from anniversaries to birthdays. Visit them online to browse their selection, or call (859) 342-7575 to place an order.