Did you buy a potted peony? Is it your intention to grow it as a container plant permanently? A peony grown as a container plant in the sun of Dallas would require a large container indeed, as it would soon fill with roots, and be almost impossible to keep it watered. A peony not in the sun will still grow but will not bloom well, even if you can provide enough winter chill, which is doubtful in Dallas, and impossible in a covered patio in Dallas. Al