Organization Introduction

Established in 1976, Shelldance Gardens, LLC is an orchid nursery operated by partners Michael Rothenberg and Nancy Davis. Shelldance Gardens, LLC is a botanical environment open to the public and devoted exclusively to growing orchids, bromeliads and neotropical plants. Shelldance occupies historic greenhouses built in 1949 by Herb Hager for the cultivation of orchids.

The orchid family (Orchidaceae) demonstrates one of the most specialized lines of flowering plant evolution, with over 25,000 species and more than 100,000 hybrids. Orchids are found on every continent except Antarctica, and they have adapted to nearly every habitat on Earth. Shelldance Gardens specializes in cool-growing orchids from the cloud forests of Central and South America, particularly the Pleurothallid alliance — a group of miniature orchids of extraordinary diversity and beauty. Our collection includes rare and at-risk species that are disappearing from their native habitats due to deforestation and climate change. By growing and propagating these plants, we help preserve genetic diversity and educate the public about the importance of botanical conservation. Shelldance is both a world resource and a local treasure.

Our greenhouse facilities are located within 2 miles of the Pacific Ocean in Pacifica, California, within the boundaries of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The cool, foggy coastal climate of Pacifica is ideal for growing the cool-growing orchids of the cloud forests of Central and South America. Our greenhouses maintain temperatures between 45°F and 65°F year-round, mimicking the conditions of the high-altitude cloud forests where these plants naturally grow. We grow over 3,000 plants representing hundreds of species and hybrids. Our collection is constantly evolving as we acquire new species, propagate existing plants, and retire older specimens. Growing orchids is a long-term commitment — many species take 5 to 10 years to reach blooming size, and some bloom only once a year for a few weeks. But the rewards are extraordinary. The flowers of cool-growing orchids are among the most intricate and beautiful in the plant kingdom. It takes a lifetime of commitment to accomplish goals. Our dedication is steadfast.