Here is a link that offers a great deal of information about a plant that helps stabilize areas prone to erosion. While most of the information deals with Asia, the plant, where available, is well worth looking at. When you read about it's virtues it might put you in mind of a snake oil salesman as it is a cure for so many things as well as a base for perfume.
I planted it around the perimeter of my pond and it has taken hold fairly well. It is not invasive, it grows in clumps and does not spread thorough rhisomes. The roots go as deep as 12', it does not seed.
http://www.vetiver.com/
