A sympathy plant differs from funeral flowers in that it is delivered to the home or office of those close to the deceased. While a white lily, the symbol of rebirth and purity, is the classic sympathy plant, a hydrangea is another good choice. The deceased’s relatives can plant a hydrangea and watch it bloom year after year. This is a good sympathy plant for someone who wants to create a small memorial garden for their loved one. The same holds true for purple hyacinths, which symbolize sorrow.