What grows well / easy? - Large garden in Western NC?

Question

So I am looking at a property that is about 6 acres. I was thinking of buying it to make a personal botanical garden. It will be located in the Asheville, NC area (which is zone 7) I wanted suggestions on plants that are relatively hardy, perennial. Aesthetics is the big thing here, It has to be pretty.

I was thinking of having a few sections to it since 6 acres is a good size lot.

-Japaneses stone garden

-medicinal plant garden

-fruit garden

-Large grassy spot for lounging and picnics

-Other ideas?

the whole thing will be surrounded by a thick bushes that will give privacy (i need a suggestion for these too)

any other suggestions or tips please let me know :)

Answer 1

Beware of running bamboo.  It is considered a weed and can be very difficult to get rid off.

Answer 2

bamboo (not the clump variety) will spread like crazy and rhododendrons are a great evergreen flowering shrub for privacy..