If you live in the zones where peonies thrive, you're in luck. They're best in cold-weather areas, but most do fine down to Zone 8.

For ooohs and aaahs every year, peonies only ask for full sun and good soil. Once established, peonies create a fountain of glossy green foliage with colossal flowers that require almost no care. In fact, many perennial peonies live over 100 years, so when you plant one, you're really starting something.