We live on a freshwater lake lot. The prior owner cleared the bank and
I am concerned about erosion as we plan on living here forever (or
longer :-) ). We are prevented by local rules from putting down riprap
or seawalls. So, I want to plant something to help control the
erosion. I am seeking advice on what to plant. The target plant
should be:
- Low maintenance. (I'm lazy.)
- A long-living perennial. (I certainly don't want to have to do this
regularly.)
- Deer resistant. (We have lots of deer (and other wildlife) in the
area, and something that isn't deer resistant will get eaten before it
has a chance!)
- Be low growing. Preferably something that will not grow to be more
than a few feet or so tall. (We don't want to block our view of the
lake.)
- Able to grow in a variety of shade conditions. I think during the
summer this area will get full sun. But in the fall, it may be shaded
by the trees.
- Not have thorns. (I hate them.)
- Capable of growing in dry and moist soil. I hope to plant these on
the bank only a very short distance from the edge of the lake. I guess
the soil may be dry there for a couple of years, but as the lake
reaches the plants the soil may become more moist.

I live in South Carolina in zone 7-8. The soil seems to be a layer of
topsoil over clay on the bank, but the lake bottom is sandy soil.

I have 0 gardening skill (or less), and any advice greatly
appreciated!!!
Arden