Pink Orchid Sympathy Plant: A Memorial Gift

A sympathy orchid in a grey planter

This is a phalaenopsis orchid plant with arching flower stems, in a soft grey planter. The petals are a pale, gentle shade, warm without being bright, and the grey container keeps the look calm and full of quiet elegance. Each stem carries open flowers, and usually a few buds that will bloom over the coming weeks. It is a living plant, not an orchid arrangement of cut stems, so there is no vase to find and nothing to arrange; the family can simply select a spot where it will brighten the room.

Why send a pink orchid sympathy plant

The meaning of an orchid is often given as love, grace and dignity, and a soft blush adds a sense of tenderness, innocence and admiration. That symbolism makes it a fitting gift for a mum, a grandmother, a sister or a friend, or for any family member who simply liked the colour. Orchids come in white, pink and purple; white orchids are the more traditional choice, but this graceful tone can feel warmer and just as respectful in a home where people grieve.

Many people choose living orchid plants rather than sympathy arrangements of cut flowers because of their longevity. These orchids can keep their lasting blooms for many weeks and, with a little care, flower again in a later year, a symbolic sign of renewal that can endure long after the service. That is why orchids are so often chosen for memorial arrangements and counted among the best sympathy gifts: one often becomes a keepsake.

A memorial gift and a lasting remembrance

An orchid is one of the most thoughtful memorial gifts you can send at a time of loss, and a gentle gesture suitable for close family and colleagues alike. It is a quiet expression of sympathy that the family will see every day, and it looks right in calm memorial settings, beside a photograph of a loved one. A card goes with it, so you can personalise the gift, express your sentiment and convey your condolence with a few words of compassion. Phalaenopsis orchids are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, while every part of the lily is toxic to cats, so an orchid is a kinder choice for a home with pets than a bouquet or basket with lilies.

Caring for the orchid flowers

Keep the plant in a bright spot out of direct sun, away from radiators and cold draughts. Water about once a week, once the bark feels almost dry, and let any extra water drain away, so the roots never sit in water. When the last flower drops, cut the old stem back; with good light the plant will often send up a new one.

Sizes, prices and delivery

There are three sizes: Standard £32.99, Preferred £54.99 and Elegant £65.99. The larger sizes give a fuller display of the same orchid. When you buy online, a local florist prepares the plant and delivers it to the family's home or a workplace. Delivery is £12.49 per order, added at checkout, Monday to Saturday from tomorrow onwards; there is no delivery on Sundays or bank holidays, and we cannot deliver to AB10 postcodes. If the plant isn't available that week, the florist may use one of the same colour and style, of equal or greater value.

Questions about pink and white sympathy orchids

Can I send it to the funeral home?

A plant is best sent to the family's home or the office, where it can be kept and cared for. At larger services a spray or wreath is more usual, while an orchid suits smaller gatherings at home, where it can stay afterwards. For a floral tribute at the funeral, see our funeral flower arrangements or our sympathy flowers collection.

Is there a white version?

Yes, our white orchid plant comes in a matte white pot, at the same prices. See all our plants for the home.