ABOUT US

Nurturing a Rich Past, Growing a Bright Future.

The San Francisco Flower Market is the largest wholesale flower market in Northern California. One of only five grower-owned wholesale flower markets in the U.S. We are the one-stop floral source for Northern California with 20 Individual vendors there for all your floral needs

Our Mission is to Foster a close knit floral community, support local agriculture and education

As a nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to being a cherished hub for local florists, event planners, designers, and flower lovers for decades, providing a wide variety of florals to help bring designs to life and beautify homes while enhancing community engagement and sustainability.

Our History

The market opened in 1912 and still serves as a hub to foster community and support local agriculture and education. Learn more about our history below.

1912

The California Flower Market was officially formed as a corporation under state law with 54 Japanese American growers as shareholders.

1924

A new flower market was built at 5th and Howard street. Italian, Japanese and Chinese growers operated under the market

1936

A badge identification system was introduced for retail florists in order to adhere to sales tax laws. Non-retail buyers could not purchase directly from the Flower Market.

1942

During world War II Many Japanese American flower growers and florists lost their land and businesses, others were able to lease their properties to non-Japanese American growers.

1956

The Flower Market moved to a building on the corner of 6th Street and Brannan Street in the South of Market district of San Francisco, with a grand opening in September 1956. The building covered 135,000 square feet and could accommodate 100 growers in its space.

1990

Demand grew for different types of flowers and arrangements. By the early 2000s, well over 100 species and types of cut flowers were grown in the U.S., including spring and summer annuals, perennials, and woody trees, shrubs, and grasses.

2024-2025

The San Francisco Flower Market has moved to Potrero Hill, embracing its new status as a nonprofit organization, which will further its mission to support local growers and enrich the community's connection to nature and beauty.