On December 2, 1975 a small group of people with a common interest in bonsai met and, as a result of that meeting, the Sho Fu Bonsai Society of Sarasota was formed.

 Sho Fu literally translates as “wind in the pines,” but to club members it has meant so much more. For over 50 years, Sho Fu has meant sharing an interest in a centuries-old art form.  It means an informative monthly meeting where people can learn more about bonsai and enjoy camaraderie with an interesting cross section of people.  It is a place where world-renowned visiting and local bonsai masters teach their art to an ever growing audience.

In 2007, Sho Fu Bonsai Society of Sarasota undertook collaboration with Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to put together a world-class permanent bonsai exhibit through donations from club members. The club maintains the trees of the exhibit with assistance from volunteers from the Sho Fu membership, led by our volunteer curator, as well as professionals who work on trees several times a year. This exhibit is visited by the more than 140,000 people who come to Marie Selby Gardens each year. Many people, for the first time, can actually see bonsai trees on display, and enjoy the beauty of this ancient art form.

Sho Fu Bonsai Society of Sarasota membership includes monthly meetings at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens which hosts guest bonsai artists and workshops to help our members, both old and new, increase their knowledge of bonsai.  It also includes membership in the Bonsai Societies of Florida which hosts an annual learning convention and exhibit every May in Orlando.  Members enjoy a full day of free admission to all events during the 3-day convention