In Jainism there is no “best flower.” The core principle is ahimsa (non‑violence), so plucking fresh flowers is generally discouraged because it harms plant life (vanaspati jiva). Therefore:

• Ideal practice: Do not offer plucked flowers. Use non‑harming substitutes like akshat (unbroken rice), sandalwood, saffron, cloves, dry coconut, or clean water. If a flower must be used symbolically, prefer clean, already‑fallen flowers or cloth/paper/artificial flowers.
• Shvetambar tradition: Some pujas include Pushpa‑puja symbolically. Many communities now perform the puja with dry samagri (no plucked flowers) to uphold ahimsa.
• Digambar tradition: Temples typically avoid offering plucked flowers; worship emphasizes pure intent and non‑harming dravyas.
• Symbolic note: The lotus is praised in Jain texts as a symbol of purity and detachment, but it is not a mandate for offering.

For simple guidance on what to use in place of flowers, see:

• Ashta‑prakari puja and what each item means
• Shvetambar puja without plucked flowers (dry‑samagri options)
• Why flower offerings are generally discouraged and preferred alternatives
• Symbolic meaning sometimes given to “flower‑puja” in bhakti contexts