Flowers for hospital – how to choose the right bouquet
Few things brighten up a hospital stay like a beautiful flower bouquet. Flowers provide comfort, energy and a feeling of care. But not all flowers are suitable for hospitals – here you'll find the guidance you need.
Order flowers easily online – same day delivery.
Order flowers nowFlowers that lift your mood
Studies have shown that flowers have a real positive effect on patients' wellbeing – they contribute to lower stress levels, reduced blood pressure and better mood. When you want to send flowers to hospital, you should choose bright, cheerful colours that convey hope and positive energy.
Tulips – fresh and cheerful
Tulips in pink, yellow and purple are an excellent choice for hospital visits. They have little or no scent (which is important in hospitals!), last a long time and radiate freshness. A colourful tulip bouquet really works wonders for the mood in a hospital room.
Gerbera – the flower of joy
With their strong, cheerful colours, gerberas are ideal for hospital visits. The flower is virtually scent-free, has long-lasting blooms (up to 14 days) and symbolises pure joy. Mix orange, yellow and pink gerberas in a bouquet to create a warmer and happier atmosphere in the room.
Daffodils and hyacinths
Daffodils stand for new life and hope – an encouraging message for someone who is ill. Hyacinths in light colours give a lovely warm feel. Be aware that hyacinths have a strong scent – check with the ward first if scented flowers are acceptable. You can order flowers with delivery directly to the hospital.
Send flowers quickly and safely throughout the UK.
View prices and selectionWhat should you avoid at the hospital?
- Strongly scented flowers: Oriental lilies, stargazer lilies and strongly scented roses can disturb patients with nausea or allergies. Check with the ward in advance.
- Allergy-triggering flowers: Pollen from lilies and chrysanthemums can trigger allergic reactions. Gerbera and tulips are safer alternatives.
- Lilies on cancer wards: Many cancer wards do not allow lilies at all, due to pollen and strong scent. Always check with the ward.
- Potted plants with soil: A number of hospitals do not allow potted plants with soil due to infection risk. Cut flowers are the safest choice.
Read our guide to sending flowers for more information about delivery times and practical tips. Also see flower language to choose the right symbolism for someone who is ill.
Safe choices for hospital visits
- Gerbera (virtually unscented, long-lasting)
- Tulips (unscented, cheerful colours)
- Alstroemeria (unscented, very long-lasting)
- Chrysanthemum (long-lasting, mild scent)
- Wax flower/sunflower (cheerful, low allergy risk)
Send flowers to the hospital to spread joy – see our selection of flowers online with fast delivery.