Mine do good in full sun. They bloom better in full sun. Been growing them since 63. I got my first for a wedding gift from the preachers wife.

Thank you Plantman! I am happy to hear that. I kind of have my heart set on Peonies but was afraid they wouldn't do well. There are a zillion to choose from. Do you have a favorite? I am impressed that you've been growing them since 1963 - what a great idea for a wedding gift!

I mostly grow the double type, some single blooms types. I have not tried the bush or tree types. They cost to much.
Who has tried the bush type?

i have grown the tree peonies (p. suffruticosa) for a few years but they went into decline after that and became so weak that i gave up on them. from what i have read, they are more vigorous in colder climates. at any rate, they were not happy where i had them. possible issues might have been drainage or lack of fertilizer. i thnk even the herbaceous ones prefer a winter chill period that they don't get in my area and farther south of me. my grandfather had them in north alabama (florence area) but i don't see those often around here. auburn university is studying them for heat-tolerant varieties. there is an article online if you search for it.
the tree peony flowers are big and beautiful, though, and are worthy of a spot in the garden if you can grow them. one of mine had a nice lemon fragrance.

In this part of the country humidity seems to be as much of a problem with peonies as anything. They must have good circulation and well drained soil or they'll mildew badly.

Thank you, everyone! Your input has been very helpful. I'm still interested, but I might put off my decision for a while. So much to consider! They can be expensive, and I don't want to be disappointed. Gonna think on it...thanks again!