If you’re in the Los Angeles area, there is an experience you can’t miss out on, the Los Angeles Flower District. Whether shopping for floral arrangements for an upcoming event, spending time with friends and family, or needing a pick-me-up, the L.A. Flower District is the place to be.
Spread over six blocks with over 200 wholesale retailers, the district is home to a beautiful variety of fresh flowers. From orchids to roses to peonies- you name it, they’ve got it. You’ll even find potted plants and succulents to add some greenery to your home or work environment.
The L.A. Flower District: A Brief History
Since the late 1800s, flower farmers have been drawn to Southern California’s sunny weather to plant and cultivate their flowers; the warm, semi-tropical climate was the perfect place for flowers and plants to grow and flourish.
The first was a group of Japanese American flower growers and sellers, who by 1912 had evolved their business into the first flower market in the area, the Japanese Market, later known as the Southern California Flower Market.
A few years later, around 1917, a handful of European immigrants followed in their footsteps with the American Florists’ Exchange, aka The Los Angeles Flower Market.
As both businesses prospered, they relocated to a larger headquarters in the 700 block of South Wall Street in Los Angeles, where today they form the heart of the Los Angeles Flower District, the largest wholesale flower district in the United States.
Today the L.A. Flower District (located within the L.A. Fashion District) comprises the original two major flower markets in the 700 block of Wall Street, along with several smaller markets and vendors between Maple and San Julian streets, from Seventh to Eighth Street in downtown Los Angeles.
Navigating the Different Los Angeles Flower Markets
With so many markets and vendors in the same place, it’s easy to get lost if you don’t know your way around. These are the five biggest markets with the best selection of flowers for you to choose from:
The Southern California Flower Market
The Southern California Flower Market is one of the key components of the Los Angeles Flower District. Founded in 1913 by Japanese-American flower growers and sellers, the market represents a significant part of the city’s cultural and entrepreneurial history.
Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, the Southern California Flower Market spans a block on Wall Street, making it a central figure in the largest wholesale flower district in the United States. The market operates six days a week, opening in the early morning hours to serve a diverse group of customers, including professional florists, event planners, and everyday flower enthusiasts.
Visitors to the market can explore a vast array of fresh flowers, plants, and floral supplies. The variety of blooms ranges from roses and daisies to exotic, rare flowers, catering to the diverse needs of its customer base. The market is renowned for its high-quality products, reasonable prices, and the knowledge its vendors offer.
The Southern California Flower Market also hosts workshops and other events to educate the public about floral design and horticulture. These initiatives and their commitment to sustainability and local growers demonstrate the market’s ongoing dedication to the community and the environment.
Address
742 Maple Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Hours
Monday to Saturday (5 am to 1 pm)
Admission
$2 on weekdays and $1 on Saturdays.
Parking
Both covered and roof parking are available on site.
The California Flower Mall
The great thing about this market is that it doesn’t restrict its hours to the general public (contrary to the prior two), and entry is also free! Its amenities include a restaurant with patio dining, public restrooms, and an ATM.
The California Flower Mall provides a central hub for flower retailers, event planners, designers, and the general public seeking fresh and vibrant flowers.
Established to provide a platform for local and international vendors, the California Flower Mall houses over 45 flower shops across its expansive 45,000 square feet. It operates seven days a week and even stays open for 24 hours on special occasions, providing constant access to an impressive array of flowers and floral supplies.
Visitors to the market can explore a wide variety of blooms, ranging from common species like roses and daisies to rare and exotic flowers. The combination of wholesale and retail options offers something for everyone, from large orders for events to personal bouquets to brighten a home.
Address
825 South San Pedro St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
Hours
Monday through Saturday: 4:30 am- 4:30 pm
Sunday: 5 am- 12 pm
Admission
Free!
Parking
Convenient onsite parking is available.
The Los Angeles Flower Mall
The Los Angeles Flower Mall, sometimes called the “Original Los Angeles Flower Market,” is an iconic part of the more extensive Los Angeles Flower District. Established in 1919, the Flower Mall has served the community for over a century.
The Flower Mall spans over 50,000 square feet and is home to over 50 vendors. It operates six days a week, beginning in the early morning hours, and caters to a diverse clientele ranging from professional florists and event planners to casual shoppers and flower enthusiasts.
Visitors to the Flower Mall are greeted with an expansive selection of fresh flowers, plants, and floral accessories. The selection includes many species, from common roses and tulips to exotic, hard-to-find varieties, offering something for everyone’s tastes and needs.
Address
720 San Julian St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
Hours
Monday through Saturday: 6 am- 2 pm
Admission
Free
Parking
Nearby parking lots/ metered street parking.
The San Julian Flower Market
The San Julian Flower Market is a prominent part of the more extensive Los Angeles Flower District, offering a diverse selection of flowers and plants to the bustling city of Los Angeles.
Located on San Julian Street in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, this flower market is conveniently positioned for professional florists and casual flower enthusiasts. It operates six days a week, with early morning hours perfect for those looking to grab fresh blooms to start the day.
The San Julian Flower Market is home to various vendors who provide a wide range of flower species, from popular choices like roses and tulips to more exotic and unique options. Whether planning a significant event or just looking for a simple bouquet, the market provides various options to meet your needs.
Address
744 S. San Julian St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
Hours
Monday through Saturday: 6 am- 12 pm
Admission
Free
Parking
Nearby parking lots/ metered street parking.
10 Fun Facts About the Los Angeles Flower District:
- The Los Angeles Flower District is the largest wholesale flower market in the United States, spanning over six blocks. It’s a paradise for flower enthusiasts!
- The LA Flower District was established in 1912 and has grown steadily since. It has a rich history intertwined with the growth and development of Los Angeles itself.
- The Flower District has many flower types, from common blooms to exotic, hard-to-find varieties. It’s estimated that around 125 different flower vendors are in the area!
- The market is open 24 hours a day, six days a week, showcasing the non-stop spirit of Los Angeles. The busiest hours are typically in the early morning.
- The Flower District reflects LA’s diversity with its mixture of Latin American, Korean, and other international vendors.
- The Flower District generates over $1 billion in annual revenue and supports thousands of jobs directly and indirectly.
- The district has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, reflecting the iconic Los Angeles backdrop and culture.
- Despite being in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, the district provides a green oasis amidst the cityscape, offering a refreshing change of scenery.
- The district regularly hosts workshops, design classes, and other events to educate the public about floral design and horticulture.
- Many vendors in the Flower District are moving towards sustainability, promoting locally grown flowers and implementing eco-friendly practices to minimize environmental impact.
The Los Angeles Flower District – FAQs:
What is the Los Angeles Flower District?
The Los Angeles Flower District is the largest wholesale flower market in the United States. It comprises the original Los Angeles Flower Market, the Southern California Flower Market, and additional vendors along Wall and San Julian streets.
Where is the Flower District located?
The Flower District is located in Downtown Los Angeles, specifically in the region known as the LA Fashion District.
What can I find in the Flower District?
The Flower District offers many fresh-cut flowers, potted plants, dried flowers, silk flowers, floral supplies, and even holiday decorations. You’ll find everything from common flowers like roses and tulips to exotic species worldwide.
What are the working hours of the Flower District?
The Flower District is open Monday through Saturday. Public hours start at 8:00 am, but the market is open for wholesale business as early as 2:00 am on certain days. Closing times vary depending on the day and vendor.
Can anyone buy from the Flower District, or is it only for florists?
While the Flower District caters primarily to wholesale customers like florists, event planners, and designers, it is also open to the general public. However, some vendors may require a minimum purchase amount for certain items.
Is the Flower District expensive?
Because it’s a wholesale market, the Flower District can be a very cost-effective place to purchase flowers, especially in bulk. However, prices can vary greatly depending on the type and quantity of flowers you’re buying.
How did the Flower District become established?
The Flower District began in the early 20th century when local growers would park their trucks in the area to sell their flowers. Over time, permanent shops were established, leading to the development of the current Flower District.
What should I know before going to the Flower District?
The Flower District can be bustling and somewhat overwhelming due to its size and variety of offerings. It’s a good idea to arrive early for the best selection, bring cash (as not all vendors accept cards), and be prepared to carry your purchases.
The LA Flower District – Wrapping Up
The Los Angeles Flower District is a lovely local flower market that’s well worth a visit. As one of the largest wholesale flower markets in the United States, it plays an important role in the local and national floral industry. From common garden flowers to exotic species, it caters to a broad range of needs and preferences, whether you’re a professional florist, an event planner, or a casual flower lover.
If you’re short on time and need flowers delivered in a hurry – check out our guide to the best flower delivery services in Los Angeles, offering same-day and next-day delivery from the city’s best floral design studios.
Andrew is the Editorial Director at Petal Republic. He holds a BSc degree in Plant Sciences and has trained professionally at leading floristry schools in London and Paris. In amongst overseeing a global editorial team, Andrew's a passionate content creator around all things flowers, floral design, gardening, and houseplants.
Comments are closed.