I believe you have Dichelostemma ida-maia (Firecracker Flower) also known by the Latin name Brodiaea coccinea. Remy

Thanks! I actually figured that out today based on our discussion that it was in the Aster family, and was coming here to post for whoever took the plants. I'm pretty sure it is Aster tataricus. Now that it has been identified, if anyone wants some, let me know! ~CA

It may be true that the rock keeps the roots of some sun plants too cool, but you might have better luck with sun plants if you put the plants in when already at a mature size before the rudbeckias come up in the year. You don't say if you're trying to start from seed back there, which would be hopeless because it's cool on the ground. As for selection, I'm wondering about a red astilbe, but I have to admit I don't like the mental image of that with the rudbeckia. You could go with coloured foliage - Eupatorium, or Joe Pye weed, in one of the "Chocolate" varieties. How about a tall red rose otherwise?

Yes a Peony, possibly planted too deep, the buds/eyes should be no deeper than an inch below the ground. They like a full sun/part sun location and well drained soil. On the other hand some peonies are stubborn bloomers like my "Sam Donaldson" I've did everything right as far as I know in planting it but it refuses to bloom. Last fall I dug it, left it lying there on top of the ground all winter through wind and rain and even a couple of freezes hoping the shock might give it a jolt. As of yesterday mine looks like yours, lots of fresh new growth but didn't see any flower buds starting. I dug a shallow hole popped it back in with a smidgen of soil over the roots, we'll see what happens. If that didn't do the trick it's heading for the green bin. Annette