I have a 1 acre pond located in southwestern Ohio (not sure of the zone here). The soil is clay. I have had significant trouble getting grass to grow on the bank that is part of the dam. This leads to quite a bit of sediment running down into the water.

Does anyone have any ideas on what other types of plants might do well on the compacted clay bank? Is there some type of creeping or spreading ground cover that would work? (I am thinking this might also provide a good alternative to wildlife besides fescue!) Are there any good choices that are flowering?

Thanks for your help.