Which flower to choose for the Day of the Dead?

Each flower has its own meaning and can express different emotions. The flowers offered for the Day of the Dead are chosen carefully to convey messages of love, respect, and remembrance for the departed. 

A little reminder, the difference between All Saints' Day and the Day of the Dead:

All Saints' Day, celebrated every year on November 1st, is a dedication to all saints, recognized or not by the Catholic Church. On this day, the Church pays tribute to the living who have distinguished themselves as shining witnesses of Christ. However, it should be noted that Protestant churches do not celebrate the cult of saints, even though some Lutheran churches observe this feast.

Historically, All Saints' Day was first celebrated on May 13th in the year 610 when Pope Boniface IV transformed the Pantheon in Rome into the church of Saint Mary and the Martyrs. The celebration date was later changed to November 1st by Pope Gregory III in the 8th century.

On the other hand, the Day of the Dead, established in 998, is celebrated on November 2nd, just after All Saints' Day. This day gives Catholics the opportunity to reflect and honor the memory of their loved ones by adorning their graves with flowers.

If you wish to pay tribute to your loved ones with flowers, flower delivery for All Saints' Day or the Day of the Dead is a practical and fitting option.

Here are some of the most commonly offered flowers for this special occasion :

1. Chrysanthemums 

Chrysanthemums are the most popular flowers to celebrate the Day of the Dead. Their symbolic meaning is related to death and mourning, but also to love and respect. They are often associated with the memory of the deceased and are available in a variety of colors, including white, pink, yellow, and purple. White chrysanthemums are particularly appreciated for their symbolism of purity and innocence.

Chrysanthemums are easy to care for: water the soil in the pot for the flower to grow, but avoid watering the foliage.

2. Roses 

Roses are classic flowers suitable for all occasions, including the Day of the Dead. They symbolize love, beauty, and purity. White roses are particularly appropriate for this day as they represent peace and innocence. Red roses can also be offered to express love and respect for the deceased.

3. Lilies

• Lilies are majestic and elegant flowers that symbolize purity and light. They are often associated with eternal life and spirituality. White lilies are commonly used to honor the deceased on the Day of the Dead, representing the purity of the soul and divine light. Lilies can also be offered in bouquets or wreaths to decorate graves.

4. Carnations

Carnations are versatile flowers that can express different emotions depending on their color. White carnations symbolize love and respect, while red carnations represent courage and passion. They are a popular choice for the Day of the Dead due to their beauty and symbolic meaning. Carnations can be offered in bouquets or wreaths to adorn graves and pay tribute to the deceased.

5. Pansies

Pansies are delicate flowers that symbolize humility and modesty. They are often associated with the memory of the departed and are offered to express respect and admiration towards them. Pansies can be used to decorate graves or offered to honor the deceased. They are usually presented in pots as they are challenging to arrange in bouquets due to their small stems.

6. Heather

Heather is an ideal plant to offer the day after All Saints' Day due to its symbolic meaning and delicate beauty. This flowering plant is often associated with resistance and protection, making it a fitting choice to pay tribute to the departed. Heather is also known for its longevity and ability to bloom even during the autumn months, making it a durable and resilient plant. Heather flowers are available in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and purple, allowing you to choose a shade that reflects the personality and preferences of your dearly departed. Offering heather on the Day of the Dead is a meaningful way to show respect and love for the deceased. 

7. Cyclamen

Cyclamen is a flower suitable for the autumn and winter seasons, making it an appropriate choice for the Day of the Dead. This delicate and colorful flower symbolizes resilience and beauty that can emerge even during the coldest months of the year. Cyclamen is available in a variety of vibrant colors, including pink, red, purple, and white, allowing you to choose a hue that aligns with the personality and tastes of your departed loved ones. Offering Cyclamen on the Day of the Dead is a meaningful way to celebrate life and pay tribute to the deceased with a flower that evokes beauty and resilience even in the darkest moments. 

The importance of choosing your flowers 

Flowers play a significant role in the celebration of November 2nd. They symbolize the ephemeral beauty of life and the hope of rebirth. Each flower has its own meaning and can express different emotions. Chrysanthemums, roses, lilies, carnations, pansies, daisies, and orchids are among the most commonly offered flowers for this special occasion. It is important to choose flowers that reflect the personality and preferences of the deceased, as well as the relationship you had with them. The flowers offered on the day after All Saints' Day are a way to pay tribute to the departed and perpetuate their memory.

November 2nd is a special day to honor our departed loved ones. Offering flowers is a meaningful gesture that expresses love, respect, and remembrance. Flowers such as chrysanthemums, roses, lilies, and carnations are popular choices for this occasion.

If you want to pay tribute to your loved ones with flowers, flower delivery is a practical option. You can find a selection of flowers suitable for this special day on our website. Whether you choose traditional chrysanthemums or other symbolic flowers, the important thing is to show your love and respect for those who are no longer with us.