What kind of flowers do you send to someone in the hospital?

September 28, 2025 •

3 min read

Multiple studies have indicated that the presence of flowers can reduce anxiety and improve mood, making them a thoughtful gift for a patient. When determining what kind of flowers do you send to someone in the hospital, it is crucial to consider factors beyond aesthetics to ensure safety and comfort for all.

Quick Summary

Choosing the right blooms for a hospital patient involves prioritizing hypoallergenic and mildly-scented varieties, selecting compact arrangements in non-breakable containers, and checking facility rules. Popular choices like orchids, hydrangeas, and cheerful gerbera daisies can brighten a room without causing irritation to sensitive patients or staff. For long-term stays, a low-maintenance potted plant might be a better option.

Key Points

Check Hospital Policy: Always call the hospital beforehand to confirm their specific rules on flower deliveries, especially for ICUs.
Choose Low Pollen and Scent: Select hypoallergenic and mildly-fragranced flowers like orchids, hydrangeas, or low-scent roses to avoid triggering allergies in patients and staff.
Prioritize Compact and Sturdy Arrangements: Opt for smaller bouquets or arrangements in non-breakable containers to save space and prevent accidents in the hospital room.
Consider Long-Lasting Plants: For longer hospital stays, a low-maintenance potted plant like a succulent or orchid can be a more enduring and uplifting gift.
Include a Heartfelt Message: The most important part of the gift is a personal, encouraging note, which can provide immense emotional support.

Considering Hospital Regulations and Patient Safety

Before selecting an arrangement, it is vital to be aware of the specific hospital's policies on floral deliveries. Some wards, particularly intensive care units (ICU), do not permit fresh flowers due to infection control protocols. Other areas may have restrictions on size or container materials. A quick phone call to the hospital's reception or the patient's room can clarify these rules and save you from a potential delivery headache.

Prioritizing Hypoallergenic and Mildly-Scented Blooms

Patient health is the primary concern in a hospital, and this extends to visitors and staff who might have allergies. Choosing hypoallergenic flowers is a safe and considerate choice. Heavily fragrant flowers, like stargazer lilies, can be overwhelming in a confined space and may trigger respiratory issues or headaches in sensitive individuals. Opting for blooms with low pollen counts or minimal scent ensures your gift is a pleasant addition to the room, not a health risk.

Compact and Stable Arrangements

Hospital rooms and bedside tables have limited space. An oversized or top-heavy arrangement can be cumbersome, a tripping hazard, or an obstacle for medical staff. A smaller, compact bouquet in a sturdy, non-glass container is often the best choice. This makes it easier for the patient to enjoy without worrying about it being knocked over or getting in the way of equipment.

Popular Flower Choices for Hospital Patients

Many types of flowers are excellent for a hospital setting, offering bright colors and low allergen risks. Here are some of the most popular and thoughtful options:

Orchids: Elegant, long-lasting, and low-maintenance, potted orchids are a fantastic choice. They are naturally low in pollen and can continue to bring beauty long after the patient returns home.
Hydrangeas: With their large, fluffy blooms and vibrant colors, hydrangeas add a burst of cheer. They are another low-pollen option that is well-suited for hospital rooms.
Gerbera Daisies: Known for their cheerful appearance and bright colors, gerbera daisies are a classic "get well soon" flower. They are also hypoallergenic and long-lasting.
Tulips: These beautiful spring flowers have very little fragrance, making them a great option for scent-sensitive environments. Their simple, elegant shape is very uplifting.
Roses (Low-Scent Varieties): Many modern rose hybrids have been bred to have minimal fragrance, making them a suitable choice. Opt for a classic pink or yellow rose, which can symbolize care and friendship.
Peonies: Symbolizing healing and a happy life, peonies offer beautiful, voluminous blooms with a mild scent. They are a thoughtful and symbolic choice for wishing someone well.

Potted Plants: A Long-Lasting Alternative

For a gift that lasts beyond a hospital stay, a small, low-maintenance potted plant is an excellent choice. They are often less allergenic than cut flowers and can serve as a lasting reminder of your well-wishes. Consider options such as:

Succulents: Extremely easy to care for and requiring minimal water, succulents are a modern, stylish, and long-lasting gift.
Peace Lilies: These attractive plants are known for their air-purifying qualities and are very easy to maintain. They produce beautiful white flowers and thrive in low-light conditions.

Comparing Popular Hospital Flower Choices


Flower Type	Best For	Considerations
Orchids	Long-term stays, elegant gift	Higher price point; must be potted
Gerbera Daisies	Cheerful, immediate mood boost	Shorter vase life than potted plants
Hydrangeas	Vibrant, large floral clusters	Can be sensitive to water changes
Low-Scent Roses	Classic, traditional sentiment	Confirm low-fragrance variety with florist
Potted Succulents	Longevity, low maintenance	Not a traditional bouquet; check patient's style
Tulips	Simple, elegant, spring-like feel	Short vase life

The Power of a Personal Message

No matter which flower you choose, the most important part of the gift is the thought behind it. Including a heartfelt note can mean more than the bouquet itself. Keep the message simple, positive, and encouraging. Focus on well-wishes and happy memories to lift the patient's spirits.

For additional insight into the etiquette and rules surrounding hospital visitation and gift-giving, a resource like Health.gov can provide useful information on general health protocols in healthcare settings.

Conclusion: A Thoughtful Gesture

Sending flowers to a loved one in the hospital is a kind and meaningful way to show you care. By following a few simple guidelines—like choosing hypoallergenic, low-scent blooms, opting for compact arrangements, and checking hospital policy—you can ensure your gift brings joy without any complications. Whether it's a cheerful bunch of daisies or an elegant potted orchid, a thoughtful gesture can make a significant difference to a patient's day.

Frequently Asked Questions

While many lilies are beautiful, some varieties, especially stargazer lilies, have a strong fragrance and high pollen count. It's best to avoid these in a hospital setting to prevent triggering allergies or respiratory issues. Consider low-scent alternatives like Asiatic lilies or other hypoallergenic options.

Hospitals restrict flowers, especially in areas like the ICU, for infection control purposes. Stagnant water can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can be a risk for patients with compromised immune systems. Always check with the hospital for specific ward rules.

Both can be good, but a potted plant often has an advantage. It is longer-lasting and requires minimal care, making it a great option for a long recovery. A bouquet, however, offers an immediate burst of color and cheer. The best choice depends on the patient's expected length of stay and personal preference.

Avoid flowers with strong scents or high pollen counts. Examples include heavily fragranced lilies, sunflowers, and certain types of daisies. Also, ensure the container is not glass, as hospitals prefer non-breakable materials for safety.

Bright and cheerful colors like yellow, orange, and pink are often associated with hope, happiness, and friendship, making them excellent choices for lifting spirits. Yellow tulips symbolize cheerful thoughts, while pink carnations can signify admiration and care.

Keep your message positive, simple, and encouraging. A simple "Thinking of you" or "Wishing you a speedy recovery" is perfect. You can also share a happy memory or inside joke to bring a smile to their face.

Yes, but you must have the patient's full name and room number. It is also wise to include the name of the ward. Delivering to a specific room is often only possible if you call the hospital's front desk for the correct information and double-check their policy.