Rob, do you grow any amaryllis? They're awesome in clumps in the garden- I so wish I could grow them that way! And in the same family, Clivia are good for shady areas in your neck of the woods. I believe they're both resistant to critters too.
Sinningia tubiflora is a good choice for dry areas. I need to try a couple of them in the ground- data base says hardy to 6a. I'm in 6b but could probably give it extra protection. The growth is kinda course and fuzzy, so I don't think deer would bother it.
