We who live in zone 5 of the country have an edge over our southern breathren because Peonies require a prolonged winter chill. That is one of the reason why people who live in zones 8 and higher cannot grow Peonies. So, the queen of the May garden would have to be the homey and lovely peony.
Why we love them:
Peonies are long-lived, but slow-growing at first. Garden peonies will usually begin blooming within three years after planting. They must be planted shallow. Peonies can live for up to a hundred years. Incredible!!