The World’s Largest Rosebush Can Be Found Right Here In Arizona

Arizona is home to the world's largest solar telescope, collection of miniature airplanes, Kokopelli, and...rose bush? That's right: 'Shady Lady' spans 9,000 square feet, far surpassing the area of any other on earth.

Best known for the iconic O.K. Corral, Tombstone is a little piece of the Old West that attracts visitors from all over the world.

It’s home to many saloons and other replica buildings, but one attraction tends to fly under the radar - despite being the world’s largest of its kind.

Spanning 9,000 square feet, this is by far the world’s largest rose bush.

It dates all the way back to 1884, when a young Scottish immigrant and her best friend planted a single-rooted clipping in the backyard of a boarding house for miners.

Surprisingly, the bush continued to flourish in the harsh Arizona desert until it was a massive tree.

When James and Ethel Macia purchased the boarding house, they decided to build a covered patio. It allowed the branches to intertwine with metal beams so guests could sit beneath the sprawling canopy.

While a bad time to visit the tree simply doesn’t exist, spring definitely trumps all other seasons.

For about six weeks in March and April, breathtaking white flowers emerge from the leaves. The smell is reminiscent of violets; a truly incredible aroma.

Both Ripley’s Believe it or Not and Guinness have confirmed the Shady Lady as the world’s largest rose bush.

An elevated viewing platform allows guests to admire the tree in all its glory and enjoy some relaxation in the "Town Too Tough to Die."

You can also visit the adjacent Rose Tree Museum, which features artifacts from the pioneering family, as well as books on local history and culture.

It’s only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, so stop by whenever you’re in town!

Address: 118 South 4th Street, Tombstone, AZ 85638.

Hours are 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday through Friday and 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Visit the museum's website to learn more.

Have you ever seen Shady Lady in person? If so, tell us all about your visit!