House of Flowers plant shop opens up Downtown York, Pa. Beaver Street

Downtown York just got a whole lot greener with the addition of a vibrant new plant shop, offering lively flora that are as unique as the city itself.

From succulents potted in espresso cups and gravy boats, to long-leaved Madagascar palms, House of Flowers has loads of unusual plants you might not find elsewhere.

That was the goal for owner Kathryn Shirley, who possesses a green thumb in every facet of the plant world.

"You can get a little house plant anywhere, but sometimes you’re looking for something unique, and I wanted to offer some of those plants you can't always find at big box stores," Shirley said.

The single mother of three was working in sales and business management and found herself facing constant challenges in maintaining steady work due to her health limitations, so she decided it was time to be her own boss.

"I was at home recovering from major surgery and started fooling around with succulents and gardens," Shirley said. "I would go around hunting for unique planters, or items that could be used as a planter, and opened an Etsy shop."

A gardener all her life, Shirley started at a young age helping in her parents' garden, pulling weeds, planting flowers and herbs.

"The more I thought about it, there was really a need for a local plant shop around here offering something different."

House of Flowers opened May 1, and Shirley and her three children, who are often seen watering plants or pressing buttons behind the register, are loving every second.

More:Plants, coffee and books: York's new shop is Bound to bring the community together

More:Decked Out Donuts: It's a labor of love for mom of five turned doughnut shop owner

While it's been open for a little over one month, House of Flowers is blooming with tons of plants, potted in colorful objects, Shirley said there is much more to come.

"Something I would enjoy doing every day is going to a greenhouse and walking around. The smells of it, the different plants - everything is so healthy and pretty."

Though it's not a greenhouse, Shirley hopes to give others a similar experience when they walk into her shop.

Fresh cut flowers arranged in bouquets as well do-it-yourself bouquets will be available at the shop in the coming months, as well as adult and children flower workshops where participants will learn how to construct floral arrangements.

Also offered at the shop are a handful of plant-related gifts including mugs, T-shirts, vintage posters, locally made keychains, pots and jewelry.

For weddings, parties or celebrations, Shirley offers event favors, including small plants or succulents.

Her goal is to be involved in the local community as much as she can.

"I also know not everyone is a plant expert, so I always offer help after a plant purchase, so if someone takes it home and they have questions, they can always reach out to me," Shirley said.

House of Flowers is at 15 N. Beaver St., York and information about the shop can be found on her Facebook page.