Best Flowers For Hospital

Quick Guide: For Those in a Rush

In Australian hospitals, the safest mood lifting pick is a compact, pre vased mix of low pollen roses, gerberas, carnations, moth orchids, hardy chrysanthemums, or resilient natives like banksias and proteas flowers proven to cut stress and even shorten stays. Keep it small for bedside tables, include a disposable vase for easy take-home, and always ring the ward first to confirm flower rules before Lily’s Florist (or your local expert) zips it over.

The Long Version

Sending flowers to a loved one in hospital is a thoughtful gesture that can instantly lift their spirits. A vase of expertly made flowers doesn't just brighten a hospital room – research shows flowers can also contribute to improved mood and even recovery. In fact, studies have found that patients with flowers or plants in their hospital rooms required up to 22% less pain medication and had hospital stays shortened by over a day compared to those without flowers - as shown below in a really cool data visualisation I made (at least I think so :)). Flowers help lower stress and anxiety levels, leading to more positive physiological responses like lower blood pressure and heart rates, cool huh. It's no wonder people who receive flowers are happier and stay happier longer than those who receive other gifts. With such benefits in mind, choosing the right hospital-friendly flowers – and sending them with proper etiquette – can make a world of difference for your recovering loved one.

I spoke to the staff at Lily's Florist to get their expert feedback in regards to sending flowers to a hospital, they have some great advice! See below.

Hospital Flower Etiquette and Policies

Before you rush to send a beautiful bouquet from Lily's Florist or other florists, take a moment to consider hospital rules and generally the etiquette for sending flowers to a hospital in Australia. Always check the hospital's flower policy in advance. Different hospitals (and even different wards within the same hospital) have varying rules on flower deliveries. For example, many intensive care units do not allow flowers at all due to infection control and allergy concerns. (Calvary Adelaide Hospital explicitly asks that friends wait for patients in ICU to be transferred to a ward before sending flowers.) Oncology or transplant wards with immunocompromised patients often have similar restrictions. A quick call to the hospital staff can clarify whether flowers are permitted, and if so, the best delivery instructions – e.g. include the patient's full name and room or ward number, and confirm if the hospital staff will bring the flowers to the room. Hospital patients can be moved between rooms, so providing a mobile contact or verifying delivery on the day helps ensure the blooms reach the right person.

Be mindful of timing and location. It's courteous to time deliveries during normal visiting hours or as the hospital advises. Online and local florists often work with networks who know the ins and outs of their local hospitals, including the optimal delivery times and how to navigate to each ward. This local expertise means your arrangement is more likely to arrive smoothly at the right place and time. If the hospital has a front desk or mail room for deliveries, address the flowers clearly with the patient's details. By checking policies and coordinating with hospital staff, you avoid any disappointment or wasted effort from a bouquet being turned away and even being sent back to the florist shop.

Choosing the Right Flowers for a Hospital Stay

Not all flowers are suited for a hospital environment. The key is to select bouquets and arrangements that will delight the patient without causing discomfort to them or others in their room, or surrounding rooms. Here are the main factors to consider when picking hospital-friendly flowers:

Allergy-Friendly, Low-Fragrance Blooms

Hospital rooms are enclosed spaces shared by patients, visitors, and staff – some of whom may have allergies or sensitivities. To avoid aggravating anyone's sinuses, opt for hypoallergenic flowers with minimal fragrance and pollen. Lara said: "We typically recommend hypoallergenic blooms like roses, carnations or orchids that won't trigger allergies," says the team at florists specialising in hospital deliveries. These varieties have low pollen counts or pollen that is not windborne. Other good choices are daisy-like gerberas, tulips, hydrangeas, and chrysanthemums, which add colour without a strong scent. Avoid highly fragrant flowers or those with messy pollen. Lilies, for example, are gorgeous but some types (e.g. Oriental lilies) have potent fragrance and pollen that can stain. If you do choose lilies, consider Asiatic lilies (which are less perfumed) or ask the florist to remove the pollen-bearing stamens as a precaution. Lily's Florist staff emphasise that they "carefully select varieties of flowers that avoid strong scents or high pollen counts" for hospital deliveries. The goal is a beautiful arrangement that everyone can enjoy without sneezes or headaches.

Bright and Cheerful Colours to Uplift Mood

A hospital setting can feel dull or clinical, so it's wise to choose flowers with bright, cheerful colours to energise the room. Flowers in sunny yellow, warm orange, joyful pink or bold red shades are known to have positive effects on emotional well-being. For instance, a bouquet of golden sunflowers or yellow gerberas can symbolise happiness and hope – a perfect pick-me-up for someone recovering. If your loved one has a favourite colour, incorporating it can also provide comfort and personalisation. "Make 'em bright!" is the advice from the experts. 

Mixed Orange Arrangement

$85.75

Same Day Delivery

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"Bright, colorful flowers inject colour into a room and instil joy and happiness in the recipient...", Sam said. Consider mixed arrangements that combine a rainbow of blooms for maximum cheer, or even soft pastels for a gentle calming effect if the patient prefers. The key is to add life and warmth to the space through colour. A bright, hospital-friendly arrangement featuring roses, gerberas, and lilies in vibrant pink, yellow and purple hues. Cheerful mixed bouquets like this not only look stunning but also help lift a patient's spirits with their lively colours. Studies by psychology and medical researchers have found that receiving flowers triggers positive emotional responses, increasing feelings of happiness and reducing anxiety. In a hospital, that burst of colour can be a visual reminder of the love and support waiting for the patient outside – truly a mood booster on tough days.

Long-Lasting & Low-Maintenance Flowers

When selecting hospital flowers, durability matters. Hospital stays can last several days or more, and you'll want the blooms to stay fresh as long as possible. Choose long-lasting flowers and hardy varieties that can thrive indoors with minimal care. Carnations, chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, and orchids are renowned for their longevity – often looking good for a week or longer with proper water. Australian natives like banksias, proteas or gum blossoms are also excellent for longevity; they're bred to withstand tough conditions, so in a hospital room they'll hold up well. "Native Australian flowers are known for their durability and resilience, making them perfect for a hospital environment," Lara explain. 

Australian Native Arrangement

$136.30

Same Day Delivery

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These sturdy flowers cope well with air-conditioned hospital environments and require little attention, so your recipient can simply enjoy them without fuss. Also consider the stage of flower bloom and freshness. Tight buds (for flowers like lilies, tulips or roses) will open gradually and last longer than fully open blooms. Many florists will pick seasonal fresh flowers at their peak, which tend to be both vibrant and long-lived. In Australia's climate, we're lucky to have beautiful flowers all year round. You might choose tulips or irises in spring, big happy sunflowers in summer, and hardy natives or carnations in the cooler months – all of which are usually readily available and last well. Florists can guide you on what's in season; seasonal blooms not only support local growers but also ensure you get the freshest flowers that will go the distance. If you need any advice about what to order don't forget you can call the staff at Lily's Florist any time.

Right-Sized Arrangements and Containers

Hospital rooms have limited surface space, so we strongly advise for smaller, compact arrangements that can sit comfortably on a bedside table or windowsill. A mega 100-rose bouquet might look impressive (and expensive so a little OTT!), but if it crowds the room or makes it hard for nurses to access equipment, it's not ideal. Most of the staff at Lily's Florist said to me they advise choosing a modest sized bouquet (a deluxe) or a small vase arrangement for hospital delivery. This also makes it easier for the patient (or their family) to transport the flowers home upon discharge so they can continue to enjoy the flowers at home. "Choose smaller over bigger. Large, bulky arrangements could interfere with hospital equipment or staff going about their activities," advises Lara, adding that compact bouquets are also easier for the patient to take home. Equally important is the container. Plan to send flowers already arranged in a vase, box or pot rather than as loose cut stems that would require the hospital to find a vase. 

Almost all hospitals don't supply vases for incoming flowers, and a patient may not have a spare jug of water handy. Florists can create designs in disposable boxes or bowls with water soaked floral foam, or in inexpensive plastic vases that don't need to be returned. "When you send a flower bouquet to a hospital, adding a vase is an absolute must," Lara advise. A self-contained arrangement keeps the flowers hydrated and safe (no spills on electrical equipment) and it's convenient – the recipient can enjoy them immediately and easily take them home later. Sturdy, shatter-proof containers are awesome; a lightweight plastic or acrylic vase, or a decorative box, will avoid any risk of broken glass in the hospital. Florists specialising in hospital deliveries use special hospital safe vases that are lightweight and sized just right for bedside hospital tables. Clear vases are a nice touch too, as they let everyone see the stems and water level, ensuring the arrangement stays fresh.

Best Flower Types for Hospital Delivery

What specific flowers make the best get-well gift in Aussie hospitals? Here are some top choices, valued for their beauty and suitability in a hospital setting:

Roses

A classic that's surprisingly hospital-friendly. Standard roses have very little pollen (it's usually contained within the flower) and a mild fragrance. They're elegant and come in many colours to express your wishes – yellow for friendship, pink for admiration, red for love, etc. A mixed rose bouquet is a timeless way to say "I'm thinking of you." Just avoid thorny stems or ask the florist to remove thorns for safety.

Carnations

These ruffled blooms are long-lasting, low-scent, and come in virtually every colour. Carnations are known as a hypoallergenic flower, and their cheerful, frilly petals can brighten up a small vase nicely. They also hold up well in floral foam (common in hospital box arrangements), which means they'll stay fresh for days with minimal water. A vase of pink and white carnations, for example, exudes comfort and caring without overwhelming the senses.

Gerbera Daisies

Big, bold gerberas are bright and uplifting. They have no noticeable scent and low pollen (especially the newer varieties bred for cutting). Their daisy-like faces in reds, oranges, yellows, pinks, or whites are sure to make your loved one smile. Gerberas do well in arrangements and can last a week if kept in water. Because of their form, even a simple bunch of mixed gerberas looks joyful and optimistic – perfect for a get-well gift. Popular "Bright Mixed Gerbera Arrangements" combine these happy blooms in a spectrum of colours, ideal for hospital delivery.

Bright Mixed Gerbera Arrangement

$85.75

Same Day Delivery

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Orchids

Exotic yet practical, many orchids are highly tolerant of indoor conditions. Phalaenopsis (moth orchids), for instance, are a favourite for hospital gifts – often sent as a potted plant. They have a sophisticated beauty, produce virtually no pollen, and their blooms can last for weeks with proper care. A single elegant orchid stem in a vase can also be striking and not too large. Orchids symbolise strength and beauty, making them a meaningful get-well gesture. Plus, as a bonus, the patient can take a potted orchid home and enjoy it long after recovery (just ensure the hospital allows potted plants – if not, cut orchid arrangements are a great alternative).

Chrysanthemums

Commonly called mums, these flowers are sturdy, long-lasting and full of volume. They come in many forms (button mums, spider mums, daisy mums) and colours. Chrysanthemums are considered generally hypoallergenic and have been shown to help purify indoor air. A vase of green button mums or white daisy mums mixed with other flowers adds fullness and life to an arrangement. They're a symbol of well-wishing and joy in many cultures. In Australia, mums are often locally grown and available year-round, making them an accessible choice for hospital gifts.

Australian Native Flowers

To add a uniquely Australian touch, consider a native floral arrangement - as I showed above. Native flowers like proteas, banksias, waratahs, gum blossoms, and Geraldton wax are not only visually striking but also exceptionally hardy. They handle temperature changes and less-than-ideal water conditions better than many delicate flowers. Natives often have earthy or subtle aromas (e.g. eucalypt foliage can add a refreshing scent that’s not overpowering). A native bouquet is a great way to celebrate our local flora and send strength and resilience wishes – it’s a nod to “Australian strength” in a time of healing. Lily’s Florist offers an Australian Native flowers featuring a mix of long-lasting native blooms, perfect for someone who appreciates something a little different and robust. Do note that some natives have pollen (like wattle or some banksias), so if allergies are a concern, consult the florist on which species are best. Overall, natives are a wonderful, long-living option for a hospital delivery, especially in cooler months when many other flowers are out of season.

Sunflowers & Seasonal Flowers

When in season, sunflowers make an excellent get-well flower. Their big yellow faces literally resemble little suns, radiating cheer. Sunflowers have pollen, but many florists use varieties that are pollen-free (bred for cutting) or will remove the pollen to prevent mess. A bunch of sunflowers in a simple jar can brighten any corner of a hospital room and send a message of warmth and optimism. Other seasonal stars include tulips (available in late winter/spring in Australia) which are elegant and allergy-friendly, daffodils and iris (cheerful spring blooms symbolising new beginnings), and peonies (in late spring/early summer, known for their beauty and also low scent when open). Embracing seasonal flowers means you get them at peak freshness. Many florists suggest "pick out seasonal market bunches like sunflowers, tulips or chrysanthemums" for an always-fresh, appropriate hospital gift.

Of course, you can also combine several of these into one arrangement. A mixed design might include roses for elegance, daisies for cheer, and carnations for longevity – giving the best of all worlds. Many florists offer "Florist's Choice Get Well Arrangements" where expert florists handpick a selection of seasonal, hospital-friendly flowers to create a balanced, vibrant display. Such arrangements take the guesswork out of it if you're unsure what to choose – you can trust the florists to include blooms that are appropriate and fresh.

Cards, Gifts, and Expert Hospital Delivery Tips

Once you've chosen the flowers, consider a few final touches to make your gift even more special – while keeping hospital guidelines in mind.

Include a Heartfelt Card

Don't underestimate the power of a personal message. A bouquet accompanied by a warm "get well" note or a funny inside joke can bring comfort beyond the flowers themselves. Take a moment to write something encouraging and or loving. If you're at a loss for words, even a simple "Sending you all my love and positive thoughts for a speedy recovery" can mean a lot. Lily's Florist, and other florists usually provide a small and often free card with your delivery. Adding a meaningful card provides an "extra special touch" to show you truly care.

The team at Lily's Florist built a pretty nifty card message writing tool that can greatly help you write something if you are lost for words. Just remember that as the free gifts cards are so small we, and most other florists, have a character limit of around 200, I am sure you can imagine why!

Timing the Delivery

Coordinate delivery when the patient or a family member will be available to receive it. Same-day delivery is often possible (many florists offer same-day hospital delivery Australia-wide for orders placed by 2 PM on weekdays). If sending to a maternity ward, ensure it's not during designated rest periods for new mums. Also, double-check the patient's expected discharge date; you'd want the flowers to arrive while they're still admitted, or otherwise consider sending them to their home if they'll be discharged very soon.

Add-On Gifts (Hospital-Appropriate)

Many florists allow you to add a little gift with your flowers before checkout when ordering flowers online or over the phone they will tend to suggest it, us included. Popular add-ons for hospital deliveries include helium balloons, teddy bears, or chocolates. Balloons can be great for celebration (like "It's a Girl!" for a new baby, or a bright "Get Well Soon" balloon to float above the bed). Just make sure any balloons are Mylar (foil) and latex-free, as latex balloons are often prohibited due to allergy risks. 

Many florists only use latex free balloons for hospital orders and offer cheerful mylar designs that comply with hospital safety rules. A small soft toy can bring comfort, especially for pediatric patients – a cuddly teddy can keep a child company during an overnight stay. If adding snacks or chocolates, choose simple, small boxes of chocolates or treats that the patient can enjoy or share without violating hospital food policies. Always consider the patient's condition – someone on a restricted diet or feeling nauseous might not appreciate food items, whereas a teddy or even a cozy pair of socks might be better.

Presentation and Cleanup

Our partner florists, or the florist of your choosing, will handle the presentation, but it's nice to think ahead about what happens after delivery. Arrangements in disposable containers or inexpensive vases mean the patient isn't burdened with returning items. If you send a keepsake vase or ceramic pot, it becomes a gift they can reuse at home (just ensure someone can help carry it home, especially if it's heavy). Keep the bouquet manageable in size and extras – you don't want to clutter the hospital room. The idea is to brighten and comfort, not create more work or worry for the recipient.

Cultural Considerations

In Australia's multicultural society, be mindful if the patient or their family has cultural preferences or superstitions regarding flowers. For example, in some Asian cultures, white flowers are used at funerals, so a vibrant mix is preferred for a get-well gift. Many florists generally advise against pure white arrangements for hospital deliveries, leaning towards colourful mixes for a more joyful gesture. If the patient is very religious, you might avoid anything they might interpret negatively. These finer points are usually not an issue, but a bit of extra thought shows you care about every detail of your gift.

Why Lily's Florist Is Your Hospital Flowers Expert

Ordering flowers for a hospital patient is not just about picking pretty blooms – it requires care, knowledge, trust, and reliability. This is where professional florists shine. With years of experience in hospital flower delivery, established online florists like Lily's Florist have developed a reputations as trusted, compassionate experts in hospital flower delivery. Many have expanded their services specifically to cater to hospitals, knowing how much comfort a floral gift can bring to someone who is unwell. Their mission has always been to help you be "a messenger of comfort and greetings to the people you care about", and nowhere is that more important than when your loved one is in a hospital bed.

What sets Lily's Florist apart is our attention to the details that matter in hospital deliveries. We partner with seasoned local florists in every city and town, so your order is crafted by an expert who knows the local hospitals intimately. They know the layout of wards, the timing for deliveries, and any flower restrictions specific to each facility. This insider knowledge means when you order with us, you can trust that your bouquet will not only be beautiful but also 100% compliant with the hospital's policies. Our partner florists choose always choose flowers that are fresh, allergy-conscious, and arranged for hospital conditions (compact and in secure containers), as mentioned earlier. In fact, many partner florists have 10+ years of experience and even awards under their belt, so your get-well arrangement is in very capable hands.

Lily's Florist also offer nationwide same-day delivery to hospitals – simply order your hospital flowers by 2 PM on weekdays or by 10 AM on Saturdays, and we will have them delivered that day. We understand that when someone you care about falls ill or has an accident, you want to send your support right away. Online ordering processes are streamlined for ease of use (no need to create an account; you can check out on one page in minutes). Whether you're at work, at home, or even overseas, you can quickly arrange a surprise flower delivery to your loved one's hospital bedside. Lily's Florist takes pride in our reliable networks – our florists are effectively on standby to deliver to hospitals twice daily in many areas, ensuring timely arrival of your gift.

Most importantly, our partner florists handle hospital deliveries with a lot of heart and care. They coordinate with hospital staff, use hospital-safe packaging (like the non-breakable vases and latex-free balloons mentioned earlier), and include any special instructions you provide (for example, "Leave with nurse if patient is in surgery"). Their goal is to make the entire process worry-free for you, and to bring a moment of joy to the patient who receives the flowers.

Wrapping It Up

Sending flowers to someone in the hospital is a beautiful way to say "I care, and I'm wishing you well." The best hospital flowers are those that combine practical suitability (allergy-friendly, low-maintenance, appropriately sized) with personal warmth (bright colours, favourite blooms, a heartfelt note). By following the tips above – checking hospital policies, choosing the right types of flowers, and minding etiquette – you can ensure your floral gift delivers comfort and smiles, not sneezes or inconvenience. The evidence is clear that flowers truly can aid in healing, from improving mood and reducing anxiety to possibly even shortening recovery times.

When you entrust this important gesture to a seasoned flower delivery experts like Lily's Florist, you get the expertise and care needed for a seamless hospital delivery. We handle the details, so you can focus on supporting your loved one. With Australia's rich variety of flowers – from classic roses to resilient natives – there's a perfect get-well arrangement for every patient, whether it's a cheerful sunflower bouquet for Grandpa's recovery or a soft pastel arrangement to welcome your best friend's new baby.

At the end of the day, it's the thought and love behind your gift that matters most. Flowers are simply the vessel for those sentiments – a vessel that just happens to be scientifically proven to boost wellbeing! So next time someone you care about is on the mend, consider sending a bouquet of nature's best wishes. A little bit of colour and fragrance at their bedside can remind them that brighter days are ahead. And with Lily's Florist's help, you can rest assured that your hospital delivery will be handled with the utmost expertise, care, and compassion.

Best Flowers For a Hospital FAQ 

Can I send flowers to any hospital ward?

No. Always check the hospital's policy first. ICU, oncology, and transplant wards often prohibit flowers due to infection control and allergy concerns.

What are the best flowers for hospital delivery?

Low-pollen, hypoallergenic options like roses, carnations, gerberas, orchids, and chrysanthemums. Australian natives like banksias and proteas are also excellent choices.

Should I include a vase with hospital flowers?

Yes, absolutely. Hospitals don't provide vases, so send arrangements in disposable containers or lightweight plastic vases that patients can take home.

What size arrangement is appropriate for hospitals?

Keep it compact. Choose smaller arrangements that fit comfortably on bedside tables without interfering with medical equipment or staff access.

When should flowers be delivered to hospitals?

Aim for normal visiting hours or as advised by the hospital. Many florists offer same-day delivery for orders placed by 2 PM weekdays.

Which flowers should I avoid sending to hospitals?

Avoid highly fragrant flowers, those with heavy pollen (like Oriental lilies), and large, bulky arrangements that take up too much space.

Can I add gifts with hospital flowers?

Yes, but choose wisely. Latex-free Mylar balloons, small teddy bears, or modest chocolate boxes work well. Consider the patient's dietary restrictions.

Do flowers really help with patient recovery?

Studies show patients with flowers require up to 22% less pain medication and have shorter hospital stays by over a day compared to those without.

What information do I need for hospital flower delivery?

Patient's full name, room/ward number, hospital name and address, plus a contact number in case they've been moved between rooms.

Are potted plants allowed in hospitals?

It depends on hospital policy. Some allow potted orchids or other plants, while others only permit cut flower arrangements. Always verify first.