When it comes to planning a funeral and selecting funeral flowers, the season can play an important role in shaping your choices. Autumn offers a unique opportunity to create floral tributes that are both beautiful and meaningful. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best flowers for autumn funerals, along with their meanings, seasonal colour schemes, and arrangement ideas.

Why Autumn Funeral Flowers?

Autumn is often associated with reflection, change, and the passage of time, making it a poignant season for commemorating a loved one. The warm, earthy tones of autumn flowers can symbolise peace, comfort, and a natural transition, while still offering a sense of beauty and vibrancy in the midst of loss.

Choosing Autumn Flowers for a Funeral

Here are some popular flower choices for an autumn funeral, along with the symbolic meanings behind them:

1. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, commonly referred to as “mums,” are a traditional funeral flower in many cultures. In the UK and Europe, they are often associated with death and remembrance. Their long-lasting blooms make them an ideal choice for funeral arrangements, while their rich autumnal shades of gold, orange, and burgundy add warmth and depth to any floral tribute.
Symbolism: Honour, remembrance, and loyalty.

2. Roses
Roses are a timeless choice for funeral flowers, but in autumn, deeper shades such as crimson, deep orange, and amber come into season. The colour of the rose you choose can convey different meanings: red represents love and respect, yellow signifies friendship, and orange can symbolise warmth and energy.
Symbolism: Love, reverence, and remembrance.

3. Marigolds
Known for their striking golden and orange hues, marigolds are often associated with the autumn season. While they have cultural significance in various traditions, they can also represent a celebration of life when used in funeral arrangements, adding a sense of vibrancy and brightness.
Symbolism: Remembrance, healing, and a celebration of life.

4. Calla Lilies
Calla lilies, with their elegant shape, are a popular choice for both funerals and weddings. In autumn, the deep purples and dark burgundy varieties offer a striking contrast to lighter flowers, symbolising peace and eternal rest. White calla lilies are also available year-round and are commonly used to symbolise purity.
Symbolism: Purity, rebirth, and transition.

5. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are not a traditional funeral flower, but their cheerful presence can be used to celebrate the life of someone who brought light and warmth to the world. Their large, bright faces can be a comforting reminder of happier times, and their golden hues align perfectly with the autumn colour palette.
Symbolism: Adoration, loyalty, and positivity.

6. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas in shades of blue, purple, and burgundy are ideal for autumn funerals. Known for their delicate beauty, they are often included in floral arrangements to symbolise gratitude, sincerity, and deep emotion.
Symbolism: Sincere emotions, gratitude, and heartfelt messages.

Autumn Colour Palettes for Funeral Flowers

Autumn is defined by its rich and warm colour palette. When planning a funeral and creating a floral arrangement, consider blending these seasonal tones to create a fitting tribute. Here are some popular autumn colour schemes:

• Deep Reds and Burgundy: These colours symbolise love, passion, and respect, making them perfect for funerals. Burgundy roses, dark calla lilies, and chrysanthemums are excellent choices.
• Golden Yellows and Orange: These warm hues offer a sense of comfort and hope. Sunflowers, marigolds, and orange roses can create a bright yet elegant arrangement that feels appropriate for autumn.
• Earthy Greens and Browns: Using foliage like eucalyptus, ivy, or fern can give your arrangement a natural, rustic feel, which complements the earth tones of autumn and adds a grounding element.
• Purples and Plums: Dark purple and plum shades can be dramatic and elegant, symbolising mourning, reflection, and eternal rest. Hydrangeas and calla lilies are perfect flowers to incorporate this deep, luxurious colour.

Choosing autumn funeral flowers allows you to reflect the season’s natural beauty while paying tribute to your loved one. Whether you opt for traditional choices like chrysanthemums and roses or add a more vibrant touch with sunflowers and marigolds, your arrangement can symbolise the love, honour, and remembrance that mark a life well-lived.

For help selecting or creating the perfect autumn floral arrangement, consult with your funeral director or a trusted florist who can guide you through the process, ensuring the flowers provide comfort and a beautiful farewell. When arranging a funeral through The Farewell Guide, you can specify the types of flowers you require while creating your personalised plan.