White Chrysanthemums should never be given as a gift. They are used in funerals. Avoid white flowers in general. Published September 28, 2007 at 500 × 287 in Chinese Etiquette: Key Concepts, Being Polite, Cultural Differences Click image to enlarge. In China, these white chrysanthemums are used in funerals and symbolize death. In general, avoid giving white flowers as a gift. Colored chrysanthemums are acceptable.