The Whitfill Nursery Story

A Legacy Rooted in Family and Tradition

The story of Whitfill Nursery is more than one of love and family—it’s a legacy of devotion to our customers that has spanned over six decades and grown alongside the Whitfill family and its dedicated staff.

Our roots trace back to Leslie E. Whitfill and his wife, Floris, whose pioneering spirit brought them west from Lubbock, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona in 1928. Arriving in a Model-T Ford, they established their homestead and planted the seeds—both literal and figurative—of what would one day become Whitfill Nursery.

In 1946, Les and Floris purchased a parcel of land on Glendale Avenue, and that location would become the heart of Whitfill. What began as a small citrus tree venture flourished under Les's care. A gifted chef by trade, Les worked for three decades as a chef at the prestigious Arizona Club—but his passion for growing took root on the side and steadily blossomed.

True to its name, Whitfill Nursery remains a family affair. In 1973, Les was joined by his daughter, Rebecca, and grandson, Brian. Soon after, Les officially passed the reins to Brian Blake and under the loving, watchful eye of Brian's mother, Rebecca, the business grew. 

Brian's dedication and vision expanded the business across multiple locations and cemented the grower-direct legacy that sets Whitfill Nursery apart to this day. 

Whitfill Nursery remains a place where history is honored, plants are nurtured, and customers are welcomed like family—just as Les intended.

Visit One of Our Locations

North Phoenix/Scottsdale
824 E. Glendale Avenue, Phoenix, AZ
Southern Location
2647 E. Southern Avenue, Phoenix, AZ
East Valley Location
820 N. Cooper Road, Gilbert, AZ