Many funeral arrangements are fanned out or "sprays" so this takes some taller flowers like gladiolus. Here is a site with some other funeral arrangement specifics on it: http://www.ehow.com/list_6541799_common-funeral-flowers.html
A typical flower used for respect at a funeral is a red rose although other flowers are also used and depending on the cause for the sympathy, many different flowers may work.
Prior to the use of embalming chemicals in corpses, flowers at funerals were used to help mask the odors from the decaying body. After the use of embalming chemicals became common, the use of flowers became tradition and symbolizes condolences, respect and affection for the deceased person(s).
Lilies, roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations are commonly used for funeral arrangements. White flowers symbolize peace and purity, while red can represent love and respect. It's important to consider the preferences of the deceased or their family when selecting flowers for a funeral.
A blow dart can be used for shooting darts, usually dipped in poisons. It was commonely used as a weapon during specific times in history; times which, I apologise, can not remember.
Flowers should not be sent to a Hindu funeral. If a friend wishes to send flowers, it is best to send them after the funeral and cremation, so they are not part of the ceremony. Hindis' use Tulsi, a relative of Basil at the funeral. This is used to pass health benefits on to the dead before their next life begins. The lotus is an important and sacred flower and it is linked to good health and virility. Family members may place lotus flowers and Tulsi over the body of the deceased.
Normally red or white roses or carnations or even both flowers and both colours.
Whitney Houston's funeral, held on February 18, 2012, featured an array of beautiful flowers, including white roses, lilies, and orchids. These flowers were chosen for their elegance and symbolism, reflecting Houston's grace and the love her family and friends had for her. The floral arrangements created a serene and poignant atmosphere during the service.
In Indian culture, flowers are considered to mostly symbolize happiness and celebration for which reason flowers would not be sent to a Sikh funeral. (Though flowers may be used to make a garland for the deceased's body and/or picture of the deceased, it would be better to send flowers for that purpose and to let the family take care of that).
I think that lillies are very beautiful and symbolise purity and innocence. If not, just find a flower that means something to either you or them. I'm sure it will be appreciated. Floral tributes are a key aspect of a funeral. It is wise to choose flowers that do convey some meaning as well as adding some aesthetic enhancement. Lilies are popular, as are roses and carnations. You should also think about colors as these are symbolic too. There is a distinct difference between funeral flowers, which are the displays that are specifically arranged to accompany the funeral service, and sympathy flowers that are generally sent to the home of the bereaved. If you are sending flowers to a funeral it is also wise to check with the family and/or funeral home first as what is considered appropriate. You don't want to send something that conflicts with the family's arrangements.
I don:t know about Japan but do know some cultures do not use them. the French, for some odd reason do not use Wreaths or Bells- On Christmas Cards, as they consider these mournful symbols - two swinging bells at angle are , however used for New Year"s day- with the caption equivalent of ( Best wishes). There are some cultures which do not use flowers for funerary purposes.
In my country, some common leaves and flowers used as adornments include rose petals, jasmine flowers, marigold flowers, and eucalyptus leaves. These are often used in making garlands, bouquets, and decorative arrangements for various festivals and celebrations.
The Funeral Home they used for Hector Lavoe's Funeral was the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Home in Manhattan. The same one used for Celia Cruz.