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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Ellie Kemp

The meaning behind the flowers on the Queen's coffin

The Queen's coffin was adorned with a colourful bouquet of flowers which was requested especially by the King. Her Majesty was laid to rest during a state funeral at Westminster Abbey on Monday (September 19), which was attended by 2,000 invited guests.

It was watched across the UK and the world by millions and is thought to be the largest international event the country has hosted in decades. The Queen's coffin was draped in the Royal Standard had the Imperial State Crown and the Sovereign's orb and sceptre resting on top of it.

It also had a carefully curated bouquet of flowers which were cut from the gardens of Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Highgrove House. The flowers and foliage were chosen for their symbolism.

Read more: Queen's funeral LIVE as nation comes to a standstill for state funeral of Elizabeth II

They include rosemary, for remembrance, and myrtle cut from a plant which was grown from a sprig of myrtle in the Queen’s wedding bouquet. Myrtle is often seen as a symbol of a happy marriage.

Also included are English oak to symbolise the strength of love, pelargoniums, garden roses, autumnal hydrangea, sedum, dahlias and scabious. These are in shades of gold, pink and deep burgundy, with touches of white, to reflect the Royal Standard.

Also at the King’s request, the wreath has been made in a sustainable way, in a nest of English moss and oak branches. No floral foam was used.

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