Flowers

Having a backyard and actually growing things in it (I believe it's called, "gardening") is still a relatively novel idea for me.

The backyard currently has an herb garden that I love and get tons of use out of, a lemon tree, and other green colored plants, but no flowers of any kind.  I enjoy fresh flowers and buy them every so often, but never thought about actually planting them... until now!

I need to do some more research but a few of my favs so far are hydrangeas, peonies, and roses.  I need a hardy type, with a high survival rate to withstand several days (at least) of neglect.

Any suggestions?