I'm not familiar with the term 'barefoot tree peonie' so am wondering if you meant 'bareroot' which is an easy switch to make since 'barefoot' would have no soil covering its roots; no shoes in other words. Anyway, if it is bareroot plant it now. A bareroot plant could not survive the summer without nourishment. With barefoot roses we soak the roots in a bucket of water for a few hours before planting. This time of year I'd be inclined to plant it in a pot so it could be kept in the shade until it developes some good roots and then plant out it in fall. I think tree peonies prefer cooler climates; I know my sister in law grows them in Vermont, but as long as it was free you may as well give it a chance. Wishing you the best!

Omg... Lol...you're so funny roselee. My iPad did the autocorrect and I failed to review my entry. Thank you so much! My next door neighbor recommended to put it in pots too. Should I put my climbing gardenia in a pot too? I just got it from the same website. It came in a very tiny 2" pot and about 4" tall.

Well, the term 'barefoot Contessa' is burned into our minds, but this may be the first 'barefoot Peonie' ... hahaha! However, with auto correct communication devices and voice activated emails who knows what might turn up next?

Yes, I'd baby the little four incher by putting it succeedingly (is that the right word?) larger pots until it can make it in the ground without being trambled.