Short answer

• Yes, plucking a living flower is a small form of himsa (harm). In Jain Dharma, any injury to even one‑sensed beings like plants binds papa (bad karma).
• Worship is done to purify our own bhava (inner state), not to please a Vitarag Bhagwan. So, flowers are not required for God; they are only symbols for our feelings.

Why do some still use flowers?

• In dravya‑puja (material worship), “pushpa” is counted as one of the ashta‑dravya in many traditions. The idea is symbolic: “I offer the flower of my virtues.” Where flowers are used, it is allowed only with great care, keeping ahimsa primary and minimizing harm.

Sect-wise notes (simply)

• Shwetambar (Murtipujak): Pushpa is traditionally included in puja, but maryada advises minimizing himsa (no buds, no roots, don’t pluck at night, avoid flowers with insects, prefer what has naturally fallen, use minimal quantity).
• Digambar: Greater emphasis on avoiding fresh/green plant‑matter in puja; many follow alternatives (akshat, chandan, kesar, dhoop, deep) and keep focus on bhava‑puja. Practices can vary by temple maryada. In all, ahimsa is foremost.

Best Jain way today

• Prefer bhava‑puja: contemplate and “offer” the inner flower of shuddha‑bhava (pure feelings) and virtues.
• If doing dravya‑puja:

1) Prefer akshat, chandan, kesar, dhoop, deep, naivedya, phal. 2) If flowers are used, avoid plucking; use naturally fallen or previously detached flowers only, in the smallest quantity, and never with insects. 3) Do not use buds, leaves, roots, or at night. Dispose of used flowers respectfully, without littering or hurting beings.

Essence

• Jain Dharma never demands a real flower; it asks for ahimsa and purity of intent. The safest path is bhava‑puja or himsa‑minimizing substitutes. If in doubt, follow your temple’s maryada that keeps ahimsa first.

For simple explanations on puja types and ahimsa:

• Types of puja and ashta‑dravya:
• Ahimsa as the highest principle: