Camelia japonica is borderline hardy in West Tennessee. One out of every 8 winters will kill them. The sasanquas are hardier, although not as showy. Memphis Botanic Garden has a lath house where they overwinter the more tender varieties, and you might consider doing somthing similar since you really love them. There really isn't a good nursery for "exotic" peonies, as they too are a problem in the South, but for the opposite reason, with but a few varieties getting enough winter chill to do well at all. You might try mail order for the peonies, but concentrate on the ones that work in warm winter areas like Festiva Maxima and Sarah Bernhardt.

If you can find one 'Jean May' is beautiful double pink sasanqua which blooms in Oct. here in Charlotte. Ditto the previous message on peonies, look for the early bloomers they tend to do better in the south.

You might also try the hardy camellias bred as crosses with Camellia Olifera. Some of these are hardy to Z6, having been bred at the national arboretum. Many of them have "winter", "ice", "snow",or "April" in the name. I have 2 "Winter's Star" Camellias I planted this year and can't wait to see them bloom!

Here is a link that might be useful: American Camellia Society list of cold hardy Camellias

I just recently did a "study" on whether/what peonies would possibly do well in my area--Trophy Club, N. TX. A wonderful Californian shared that he'd seen many blooming peonies from his drives over to Dallas, and advised me to give them a try. He also recommended "Fiesta Maxima," as well as "Duchess De Nemours." I ordered "Duchess" from a highly recommended supplier, Gilbert H. Wild. I can't wait to give peonies a try, and with luck and effort, I'll have photos to share next season!

=) Kathleen

Here is a link that might be useful: Gilbert H. Wild