Do a search for peonies for the south and there are alot of responses to read. For the most part stay with early bloomers and if you go with a mid-bloomer, stay with the singles. I have had success with 'Bowl of Beauty', 'Sarah Bernhardt', 'Carol' and 'Festiva Maxima'

i have several peonies and they do very well for me. i am about 1 1/2 hrs north of columbia. i would recommend a spot that offers afternoon shade. don't plant too deep and work that red clay before planting. add compost and more compost. good luck.