Are Flowers Allowed in Hospitals? What to Send Instead

Many Australian hospitals still accept flowers, but a lot of wards don't, especially intensive care, high-dependency and wards caring for people with weak immune systems. Because rules change from hospital to hospital and even ward to ward, it's worth checking first, and many people choose a fruit basket or a small hamper instead.

Here's why some wards say no to flowers, what's usually welcome instead, and how to make sure your gift reaches the right bed.

Why some hospitals and wards don't allow flowers

Hospitals don't restrict flowers to be unkind. The usual reasons are practical:

• Infection control. Vase water and soil can carry bacteria, which matters on wards where patients are more vulnerable to infection.
• Allergies and asthma. Pollen can bother patients, visitors and staff.
• Strong scents. A heavy perfume can be unpleasant for someone who already feels unwell.
• Space. Bedside tables are small and nurses need room to work around equipment.
• Vases and care. Staff don't always have vases or time to change the water.

Which wards usually say no

Policies vary, but flowers and potted plants are most often restricted in:

• Intensive care (ICU) and high-dependency units
• Cancer, haematology and transplant wards
• Some children's and newborn units

General wards are often fine, but it's always best to phone the hospital or ward and ask before you send anything.

What to send instead of flowers

If flowers aren't allowed, or you'd simply like to send something more practical, these are usually welcome:

1. A fresh fruit basket. Fruit is colourful, easy to share with visitors and something they can enjoy straight away. The Deluxe Orchard Bounty fruit basket ($99) and the Fruit Only Tower Gift Hamper ($120) are simple, generous choices.
2. Fruit with a few treats. The Classic Fruit Hamper ($120) adds a little extra for when appetite returns.
3. Tea and something sweet. A get well hamper with Twinings tea is comforting and easy to keep on a bedside table.
4. A care package for home. If they'll be discharged soon, a care package delivered to their home can be more useful than a gift in hospital.

You'll find more ideas in our get well soon gifts range.

A quick note about fruit

Fruit is usually a safe choice, but some wards limit fresh food too, and some patients are on a special diet. If you're not sure, ask the ward or a family member first. If fresh food isn't suitable, a tea hamper or a gift sent to their home is a good alternative.

How to address a gift to someone in hospital

A clear address makes all the difference. Include:

• The patient's full name, as the hospital knows them
• The hospital's name and full street address
• The ward name or number. A bed number can change, so the ward is more reliable.
• A phone number for you or a family member, in case the courier has a question

Couriers usually leave hospital deliveries at the main reception or the ward's nurses' station, and staff take them to the patient. Check that the person will still be in hospital when the gift arrives. If they might be going home soon, send it to their home address instead.

If you're sending to a hospital in New South Wales, see our list of NSW hospitals we deliver to.

Delivery

• Fresh fruit hampers are delivered to homes and many hospitals in NSW, the ACT, Victoria and Queensland by express. Express orders placed by 2pm Monday to Thursday are dispatched the same day.
• Tea and gourmet hampers are delivered Australia-wide.
• Shipping is a flat $9.99 standard (gourmet hampers only) or $14.99 express.
• Every hamper includes a free gift card for your get well message.

Hospital gift FAQ

Are flowers allowed in hospitals in Australia?

Many hospitals allow flowers on general wards, but intensive care, high-dependency and some cancer, transplant and children's wards often don't. Rules vary, so call the hospital or ward before you send them.

Why are flowers not allowed in ICU?

Mainly to reduce the risk of infection for very unwell patients, and because space around the bed is needed for equipment and staff.

Can I send fruit to someone in hospital?

Usually, yes. A fruit basket is a popular alternative to flowers. Some wards and patients have food restrictions, so check first if you can.

Should I put a bed number on a hospital delivery?

It's better to use the patient's full name and ward. Patients can move beds, and staff at reception or the nurses' station will pass the gift on.

What if the patient has already gone home?

Gifts delivered to a hospital after the patient has left may not reach them. If you're unsure of their discharge date, send the gift to their home instead.