White Orchid Sympathy Plant

Plant description

This is a white orchid plant with arching flower spikes, set in a matte white ceramic pot. Phalaenopsis, often called the moth orchid, is the species most people keep at home, because it is easy to look after and each orchid flower lasts a long time. Each spike carries open flowers and usually a bud or two still to open, so the display keeps changing in the weeks after it arrives. There is no vase to find and nothing to arrange; the family can simply select a location for it.

Why a white orchid sympathy plant

A white orchid is linked with purity, respect and peace, and its calm shape suits a home where people grieve. Many people choose a living plant rather than roses or a basket of cut flowers because it lasts. Cut stems fade within a week or two, while orchid plants can keep flowering for many weeks and, with a little care, bloom again in a later year. That makes it a sympathy gift that stays with the family as they mourn, and a gentle way to express your condolence to a colleague at work.

It also suits a home with a pet. Lilies are toxic to cats, but phalaenopsis orchids are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, which is one reason many people give an orchid as a present instead of a lily arrangement.

Care instructions

Place the pot somewhere bright but out of direct sun, away from radiators and cold draughts. Water about once a week, when the bark around the roots feels almost dry, and let any extra drain away; orchid roots should never stand in water. Avoid wetting the centre of the leaves. When the last flower drops, the spike can be cut back, and with good light the plant will often grow a new one.

Sizes, prices and flower 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 white orchid. The plant is prepared locally by a florist near the family and delivered to the address you choose, whether a 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 item isn't available that week, the florist may substitute one of the same colour and style, of equal or greater value, so the height and shape may vary slightly from the picture.

Questions about orchids, lilies and funeral flowers

Are orchids a good sympathy plant?

Yes. An orchid is elegant, easy to care for and long-lasting, so it is one of the most suitable plants to send someone who is grieving, whether a family member, a friend or a colleague.

What does a white orchid symbolise when someone dies?

The symbolism of a white orchid is usually purity, peace and lasting respect. Sending one says you are thinking of the person who died and of the family they leave behind, and it feels peaceful in a memorial setting.

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. For the service, see our white funeral flowers.

Is there another colour?

Yes. There is a Pink Orchid Sympathy Plant in a soft grey pot, and a flowering hydrangea plant. See all our sympathy plants.