| Native Plant | How it Keeps Water Away | Why It's Effective | | --------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Allegheny Spurge (Ground Cover, 1-3ft) | Allegheny Spurge, a low-growing evergreen, forms a lush carpet of glossy foliage, charming gardeners while absorbing rainwater and reducing runoff. (Thrives in well-draining soils) | The fibrous root system holds soil together, preventing erosion and creating a buffer against water flow towards the foundation. | | Foamflower (Ground Cover, 1-3ft) | Foamflower's heart-shaped leaves and delicate white flowers create an enchanting ground cover, while its deep roots channel excess moisture away. (Prefers moist, well-drained soil) | Its root structure also stabilizes the soil, reducing the risk of erosion and maintaining the integrity of the surrounding landscape. | | Wild Ginger (Ground Cover, 1-3ft) | Wild Ginger's unique heart-shaped leaves and inconspicuous blooms add intrigue, while its rhizomes stabilize soil and manage moisture accumulation. (Thrives in consistently moist soil) | This natural control over soil moisture levels safeguards against oversaturation near the foundation, which can lead to water-related issues. | | Appalachian Sedge (Ground Cover, 1-2ft) | Appalachian Sedge's slender, arching foliage contributes to a graceful landscape, and its fibrous roots gently slow down water movement. (Adapts well to moist conditions) | By absorbing and retaining water, this plant helps manage moisture levels and contributes to groundwater recharge, safeguarding your foundation. | | Creeping Phlox (Ground Cover, 1-2ft) | Creeping Phlox dazzles with a profusion of colorful blooms, forming a protective cover that anchors soil, minimizing erosion and runoff. (Thrives in well-drained soil) | This protective cover not only stabilizes the ground but also mitigates the potential impact of heavy rain, decreasing the risk of foundation issues. | | Golden Ragwort (Ground Cover, 1-2ft) | Golden Ragwort's cheerful yellow flowers create a bright, eye-catching display, while its ground-hugging growth prevents soil erosion. (Well-suited for rain gardens) | This water-retention mechanism helps create a balanced moisture environment, reducing the chances of excessive water seepage near the foundation. | | Inkberry Holly (Shrub, 3-5ft) | The glossy, dark green leaves of Inkberry Holly provide year-round visual interest, while its dense foliage intercepts and absorbs rainwater. (Adaptable to varying moisture levels) | By reducing the volume of water reaching the ground, this plant minimizes the risk of oversaturation and related foundation challenges. | | Switchgrass (Ornamental Grass, 3-5ft) | Switchgrass's graceful, feathery seed heads add movement and texture, masking runoff-slowing roots that protect soil from erosion. (Ideal for rain gardens) | Its capacity to intercept runoff, coupled with its strong root structure, effectively manages water movement and reinforces soil stability near the foundation. | | Blue Flag Iris (Perennial, Varied) | Blue Flag Iris's tall, slender stalks bear striking blue-violet flowers, offering beauty while its root system absorbs excess moisture. (Prefers moist to wet soils) | Its deep roots help regulate soil moisture, preventing oversaturation and maintaining an optimal balance that safeguards against potential foundation issues. | | Joe-Pye Weed (Perennial, Varied) | The grandeur of Joe-Pye Weed's rosy blooms draws attention, and its water-absorbing prowess creates a barrier against excess rainwater. (Thrives in wet soil conditions) | This water-holding capacity prevents water from pooling around the foundation and creates a healthier moisture balance, reducing the likelihood of water-related problems. | | Sweetbay Magnolia (Tree, 6-10ft) | Sweetbay Magnolia's fragrant, creamy-white blooms and glossy foliage provide year-round appeal, while its canopy slows rainwater. (Thrives in consistently moist soil) | This natural barrier reduces the impact of heavy rainfall on the soil, preventing erosion and protecting the foundation from potential water damage. | | Eastern Redbud (Tree, 10-15ft) | Eastern Redbud's pink to purple flowers light up spring landscapes, and its heart-shaped leaves contribute to a vibrant backdrop. (Adaptable to various soil conditions) | By maintaining soil integrity, this tree ensures that water drains away from foundations, reducing the risk of water-related issues and potential foundation damage. | | River Birch (Tree, 15-20ft) | River Birch's distinctive peeling bark and graceful form make it an attractive focal point, while its roots manage water and prevent pooling. (Thrives in consistently moist soils) | Its efficient water uptake helps regulate soil moisture levels, maintaining a stable foundation environment and decreasing the likelihood of water-related challenges. | | **Ground Cover** | **Scientific Name** | **Ideal Soil Conditions** | |------------------|---------------------|---------------------------| | Sensitive Fern | Onoclea sensibilis | Moist | | Golden Groundsel | Packera aurea | Moist, shady | | Christmas Fern | Polystichum acrostichoides | Woodland garden or shaded slope | | Alumroot | Heuchera americana | Dry to moist, shady | | Wild Ginger | Asarum canadense | Canada and the U.S., including Maryland | | Lady Fern | Athyrium filix-femina | Woodland garden or shaded slope | | Green and Gold | Chrysogonum virginianum | Dry to moist, shady | | Foamflower | Tiarella cordifolia | Moist landscapes in partial shade | | | |