The showy flowers of peonies have a striking effect in a mixed border. Make sure you choose the right location as peonies do not like to be moved or replanted. They need two to three years to become fully established. The blooms make excellent cut flowers.

Fritillaria bulbs have a very pungent odor which can help repell unwanted visitors such as rats, mice and moles from your garden. Don't plant them to close to any windows that you like to have open as the smell will be carried on a breeze into your home.