Imagine standing in your backyard after a heavy rain, watching helplessly as soil washes down your slope, leaving bare patches and threatening your home’s foundation. Soil erosion is a real problem, damaging landscapes, reducing property value, and harming the environment. But there’s a natural, cost-effective solution: best 10 erosion control plants. These plants stabilize soil with deep roots and dense foliage while enhancing your yard’s beauty. In this article, we’ve curated the best 10 erosion control plants available on Amazon, backed by customer reviews, expert insights, and thorough research to help you confidently choose the perfect plants to protect your landscape.
I. Why Erosion Control Plants Are Essential
Soil erosion occurs when wind, water, or human activity strips away nutrient-rich topsoil, leaving landscapes barren and vulnerable. On sloped yards, hillsides, or coastal properties, erosion can destabilize foundations, wash away gardens, and pollute waterways. Erosion control plants offer a sustainable solution by anchoring soil with robust root systems and slowing runoff with dense foliage. Beyond functionality, these plants enhance curb appeal, support pollinators, and reduce maintenance costs. Whether you’re a homeowner with a steep backyard, a landscaper tackling a client’s hillside, or an eco-conscious gardener, erosion control plants are a must-have for protecting and beautifying your property.
II. How We Chose the Best Erosion Control Plants
To identify the best 10 erosion control plants, we analyzed Amazon product listings, focusing on plants with 4+ star ratings and verified purchase reviews. We cross-referenced customer feedback with horticultural sources like Proven Winners and The Spruce to ensure plant hardiness, adaptability across USDA zones, and effectiveness in soil stabilization. Our criteria prioritized plants with deep or spreading roots, dense foliage to slow runoff, and low maintenance needs. We also considered aesthetic appeal, climate suitability, and value for money to meet diverse user needs, from sunny slopes to shaded hillsides. This rigorous approach ensures our recommendations align with your goal of effective erosion control.
III. Comparison Table: Top 10 Erosion Control Plants
Below is a mobile-friendly comparison table summarizing our top picks, designed for clarity and ease of use. It includes three key columns to help you quickly compare options based on your needs.
| Plant Name | Price (Approx.) | Key Features |
| Creeping Juniper | $21.72 | Evergreen, drought-tolerant, sunny slopes |
| Creeping Phlox | $37.95 | Flowering, fast-spreading, full sun |
| Big Blue Lilyturf | $91.98 | Shade-tolerant, evergreen, dense roots |
| Japanese Spurge | $80.00 | Shade-loving, deer-resistant, evergreen |
| Mondo Grass | $45.98 | Coastal-friendly, shade-tolerant, evergreen |
| Riverbank Lupine | $5.99 | Deep taproots, nitrogen-fixing, sunny |
| Rockspray Cotoneaster | $14.95 | Decorative, drought-tolerant, sunny slopes |
| Ostrich Fern | $37.95 | Wet shade, fast-growing, lush foliage |
| Weeping Lovegrass | $8.92 | Deep roots, drought-tolerant, sunny |
| Asian Jasmine | $9.99 | Fast-growing, versatile light, evergreen |
IV. Detailed Reviews: The Best 10 Erosion Control Plants
1. Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis)
Product Description: Creeping Juniper is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that excels at stabilizing sunny slopes and rocky soils. Its bluish-green, needle-like foliage forms a dense mat, spreading up to 10 feet wide and reaching just 1 foot tall. This hardy plant thrives in USDA zones 3–9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates, from cold northern winters to hot southern summers. Its shallow, fibrous roots anchor soil effectively, while its drought tolerance reduces watering needs once established. Perfect for xeriscaped gardens or erosion-prone hillsides, Creeping Juniper combines functionality with year-round greenery. Available on Amazon in 1-gallon pots, it’s a top choice for durable erosion control plants.
Price: $21.72
Key Features and Benefits:
- Evergreen foliage ensures year-round soil coverage and aesthetic appeal.
- Drought-tolerant, thriving in dry, rocky, or sandy soils with minimal watering.
- Spreads widely (6–10 feet), creating a dense barrier against runoff.
- Cold-hardy and adaptable to various climates (USDA zones 3–9).
Pros:
- Low maintenance, requiring little care once established.
- Deer-resistant, ideal for rural or wildlife-heavy areas.
- Evergreen nature provides consistent erosion control.
Cons:
- Slow initial growth may delay full coverage (1–2 years).
- Requires full sun, making it unsuitable for shaded areas.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.5-star average from over 500 reviews, customers praise Creeping Juniper’s durability, ease of planting, and effectiveness on slopes. Many note its ability to thrive in poor soils and resist harsh weather, though some mention the need for patience during establishment.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Creeping Juniper is a reliable, low-maintenance option for sunny, dry slopes where erosion is a concern. Its evergreen nature and wide spread make it a long-term solution for soil stabilization.
Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with sunny, rocky hillsides or xeriscaped gardens seeking a tough, evergreen ground cover.
2. Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
Product Description: Creeping Phlox is a vibrant, flowering ground cover that transforms sunny slopes into a colorful carpet of pink, lavender, or white star-shaped blooms in spring. Growing just 6 inches tall, this perennial spreads quickly via runners, covering up to 2 feet per plant in USDA zones 3–9. Its needle-like leaves and shallow, fibrous roots create a dense mat that slows rainwater runoff and stabilizes soil. Ideal for well-drained, sunny areas, Creeping Phlox is a favorite for gardeners wanting both erosion control plants and aesthetic appeal. Available on Amazon in 4-packs of starter plants, it’s perfect for small to medium slopes.
![Greenwood Nursery: Live Ground-Cover Plants - Emerald Blue Creeping/Moss Phlox + Subulata - [Qty: 2X Pint Pots] - (Click for Other Available Plants/Quantities)](https://treecarezone.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/10-119.jpg)
Price: $37.95
Key Features and Benefits:
- Dense, carpet-like growth reduces soil runoff on slopes.
- Vibrant spring blooms add color and attract pollinators like butterflies.
- Thrives in full sun and dry, well-drained soils.
- Fast-spreading habit ensures quick coverage within one season.
Pros:
- Rapid growth for faster erosion control results.
- Low-growing (6 inches), minimizing maintenance.
- Pollinator-friendly, enhancing garden ecosystems.
Cons:
- Requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
- May need occasional pruning to control aggressive spread.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: Boasting a 4.6-star average from 300+ reviews, Creeping Phlox earns high marks for its vibrant blooms and soil-holding capabilities. Customers love its rapid spread and low upkeep, though some note it struggles in heavy clay soils.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Creeping Phlox combines beauty and functionality, making it ideal for sunny slopes where both erosion control and visual appeal are priorities.
Ideal Use Case: Gardeners with sunny, well-drained slopes seeking colorful, low-maintenance erosion control plants.
3. Big Blue Lilyturf (Liriope muscari)
Product Description: Big Blue Lilyturf is a versatile, evergreen ground cover perfect for shady slopes where other plants struggle. Its grass-like, dark green leaves form dense clumps, growing 12–18 inches tall in USDA zones 5–10. In summer, it produces spikes of purple flowers, adding subtle beauty, followed by black berries in fall. Its fibrous root system anchors soil effectively, making it a top choice for erosion control plants in shaded areas. Available on Amazon in 10-packs of bare-root plants, Big Blue Lilyturf is low-maintenance and adaptable to various soil types, from sandy to loamy.
Price: $91.98
Key Features and Benefits:
- Thrives in full shade to partial sun, ideal for under-tree or north-facing slopes.
- Dense root system stabilizes soil and reduces runoff.
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round coverage.
- Deer-resistant, suitable for wildlife-prone areas.
Pros:
- Adapts to a wide range of soil types, including clay.
- Attractive flowers and berries enhance aesthetics.
- Low maintenance, requiring minimal care after establishment.
Cons:
- Slower to establish than faster-spreading ground covers.
- Not ideal for full sun, as leaves may scorch.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.4-star average from 400+ reviews, customers commend Big Blue Lilyturf’s shade tolerance and lush appearance. Many highlight its effectiveness in shady erosion-prone areas, though some note slower initial growth.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Big Blue Lilyturf excels in shaded areas where sun-loving plants fail, offering reliable erosion control with minimal upkeep.
Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with shaded slopes or woodland gardens needing a durable, evergreen ground cover.
4. Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis)
Product Description: Japanese Spurge is a shade-loving evergreen ground cover that forms a lush, glossy carpet, making it a top pick for erosion control plants in shaded areas. Growing 6–12 inches tall, it spreads via underground rhizomes, creating a dense mat that effectively stabilizes soil in USDA zones 4–8. Its dark green leaves and small white spring flowers add subtle elegance to woodland gardens or north-facing slopes. Available on Amazon in 50-packs of bare-root plants, Japanese Spurge is ideal for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, deer-resistant solution for shaded, erosion-prone areas. Its ability to thrive in deep shade makes it a standout choice.
Price: $80.00
Key Features and Benefits:
- Thrives in full shade to partial shade, perfect for areas with limited sunlight.
- Rhizomatous growth ensures dense coverage to prevent soil runoff.
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round erosion control and aesthetic appeal.
- Low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
Pros:
- Excellent for dense shade where other plants struggle.
- Deer and rabbit resistant, ideal for wildlife-heavy areas.
- Adapts to various soil types, including clay and loamy soils.
Cons:
- Slow to establish, often taking 2–3 years for full coverage.
- Not suitable for sunny areas, as leaves may burn.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.3-star average from 250+ reviews, customers praise Japanese Spurge for its shade tolerance and lush appearance. Many highlight its effectiveness in stabilizing shaded slopes, though some note patience is needed for establishment.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Japanese Spurge is a reliable choice for shaded, erosion-prone areas, offering long-term soil stabilization with minimal upkeep in challenging conditions.
Ideal Use Case: Urban gardeners or homeowners with shaded yards or woodland areas needing durable erosion control plants.
5. Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)
Product Description: Mondo Grass is a salt-tolerant, grass-like ground cover that excels in coastal environments and shaded landscapes. Growing 6–12 inches tall, it forms dense, arching clumps of dark green foliage in USDA zones 6–10. Its fibrous roots anchor soil effectively, while its evergreen nature ensures year-round coverage. In summer, it produces small purple flowers, followed by blue-black berries in fall, adding subtle charm. Available on Amazon in 25-packs of starter plants, Mondo Grass is perfect for erosion control plants in coastal or shady areas, offering low-maintenance durability and aesthetic appeal.
Price: $45.98
Key Features and Benefits:
- Thrives in shade to partial sun, ideal for coastal or woodland settings.
- Dense, matted foliage slows runoff and stabilizes soil.
- Salt-tolerant, making it suitable for seaside properties.
- Evergreen, providing consistent erosion control year-round.
Pros:
- Highly adaptable to coastal conditions and salt spray.
- Low maintenance, requiring little care after planting.
- Attractive flowers and berries enhance visual appeal.
Cons:
- Slower growth rate compared to other ground covers.
- May require spacing to prevent overcrowding in small areas.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.5-star average from 200+ reviews, customers commend Mondo Grass for its coastal performance and lush growth. Many note its effectiveness in shady, erosion-prone areas, though some mention slower establishment.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Mondo Grass is an excellent choice for coastal properties or shaded areas, offering reliable erosion control with minimal maintenance.
Ideal Use Case: Coastal homeowners or gardeners with shady lawns seeking a salt-tolerant, evergreen ground cover.
6. Riverbank Lupine (Lupinus rivularis)
Product Description: Riverbank Lupine is a native perennial with deep taproots and nitrogen-fixing properties, making it a powerhouse for stabilizing deep soils on sunny slopes. Growing 2–4 feet tall, it produces vibrant purple flower spikes in summer, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its 5-foot taproots anchor soil deeply, preventing erosion in USDA zones 4–8. Available on Amazon as seed packets (100 seeds), Riverbank Lupine is a cost-effective choice for large-scale erosion control plants projects. Its ability to improve soil health by fixing nitrogen makes it a favorite for eco-conscious gardeners.
Price: $5.99
Key Features and Benefits:
- Deep taproots (up to 5 feet) stabilize soil on steep slopes.
- Nitrogen-fixing properties enhance soil fertility.
- Vibrant purple blooms attract pollinators, boosting biodiversity.
- Thrives in poor, sandy, or rocky soils with full sun.
Pros:
- Cost-effective for large areas due to seed-based planting.
- Eco-friendly, improving soil health naturally.
- Fast germination, with growth visible within weeks.
Cons:
- Toxic if ingested, requiring caution around pets or children.
- Requires full sun, limiting use in shaded areas.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.2-star average from 150+ reviews, customers praise Riverbank Lupine’s deep roots and vibrant blooms. Many highlight its affordability and effectiveness on large slopes, though some note toxicity concerns.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Riverbank Lupine is a budget-friendly, eco-friendly option for sunny slopes needing deep soil stabilization and improved fertility.
Ideal Use Case: Rural homeowners or eco-conscious gardeners with large, sunny slopes seeking cost-effective erosion control plants.
7. Rockspray Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis)
Product Description: Rockspray Cotoneaster is a woody ground cover with a unique horizontal branching pattern, making it a striking choice for erosion control plants on sunny slopes. Growing 2–3 feet tall and spreading up to 8 feet, it features glossy green leaves, pink spring flowers, and bright red berries in fall. Its fibrous roots anchor soil effectively in USDA zones 5–7, while its drought tolerance suits dry, rocky landscapes. Available on Amazon in 1-gallon pots, Rockspray Cotoneaster combines aesthetic appeal with robust erosion control, making it ideal for homeowners wanting both beauty and functionality.
Price: $14.95
Key Features and Benefits:
- Horizontal branching creates a wide, dense mat to slow runoff.
- Drought-tolerant, thriving in dry, sunny conditions.
- Vibrant fall foliage and berries add seasonal interest.
- Moderate growth rate for steady coverage.
Pros:
- Attractive seasonal changes enhance landscape aesthetics.
- Low maintenance once established.
- Adapts to rocky or poor soils.
Cons:
- Not suitable for shaded areas, requiring full sun.
- Berries may attract wildlife, potentially causing mess.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.4-star average from 180+ reviews, customers praise Rockspray Cotoneaster’s decorative appeal and soil-holding ability. Many note its vibrant colors, though some mention wildlife attraction as a minor issue.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Rockspray Cotoneaster balances beauty and erosion control, making it perfect for sunny slopes where aesthetics matter.
Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with sunny, rocky slopes seeking a decorative, low-maintenance ground cover.
8. Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris)
Product Description: Ostrich Fern is a lush, feathery fern ideal for wet, shady areas prone to erosion, such as riversides or boggy slopes. Growing 3–6 feet tall in USDA zones 3–7, its bright green fronds create a tropical aesthetic while its fibrous roots anchor soil effectively. This fast-growing fern spreads via rhizomes, forming dense colonies that stabilize soil and slow runoff. Available on Amazon in 1-gallon pots, Ostrich Fern is a top choice for erosion control plants in moist, shaded environments, offering both functionality and a luxurious look.
![Greenwood Nursery: Live Perennial Plants - Ostrich Fern + Matteuccia Struthiopteris - [Qty: 2X Pint Pots] - (Click for Other Available Plants/Quantities)](https://treecarezone.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/7-124.jpg)
Price:$37.95
Key Features and Benefits:
- Thrives in wet, shaded conditions where other plants fail.
- Dense root system stabilizes soil in boggy or riverside areas.
- Fast-growing, providing quick coverage in ideal conditions.
- Adds a lush, tropical aesthetic to landscapes.
Pros:
- Rapid growth for faster erosion control results.
- Deer-resistant, ideal for wildlife-heavy areas.
- Low maintenance once established in moist soils.
Cons:
- Requires consistent moisture, limiting use in dry areas.
- Not suitable for sunny locations, as fronds may burn.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.3-star average from 200+ reviews, customers love Ostrich Fern’s lush growth and effectiveness in wet areas. Many praise its rapid spread, though some note the need for consistent watering.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Ostrich Fern is ideal for wet, shaded erosion-prone areas, offering fast-growing, attractive coverage with minimal upkeep.
Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with boggy or riverside properties needing lush, shade-tolerant erosion control plants.
9. Weeping Lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula)
Product Description: Weeping Lovegrass is an ornamental grass with deep roots and a graceful, arching form, making it a top choice for erosion control plants on dry, sunny slopes. Growing 2–3 feet tall in USDA zones 5–10, its fine, green blades form dense clumps that slow runoff and stabilize soil. Its deep root system, reaching up to 3 feet, anchors soil effectively in poor or sandy conditions. Available on Amazon as seed packets (500 seeds), Weeping Lovegrass is a cost-effective option for large-scale erosion control, offering both functionality and subtle elegance.
Price: $8.92
Key Features and Benefits:
- Deep roots reduce surface runoff and stabilize soil.
- Drought-tolerant, thriving in dry, sunny conditions.
- Fast germination from seeds, with growth visible in weeks.
- Graceful foliage adds subtle beauty to landscapes.
Pros:
- Cost-effective for large areas due to seed-based planting.
- Low maintenance, requiring minimal care after establishment.
- Adapts to poor, sandy, or rocky soils.
Cons:
- Less aesthetic than flowering or evergreen plants.
- Requires full sun, limiting use in shaded areas.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.1-star average from 120+ reviews, customers praise Weeping Lovegrass’s affordability and effectiveness on large slopes. Many note its fast germination, though some prefer more decorative options.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Weeping Lovegrass is a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option for large, sunny slopes needing robust soil stabilization.
Ideal Use Case: Rural or large-scale landscapers on a budget seeking effective erosion control plants for sunny areas.
10. Asian Jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum)
Product Description: Asian Jasmine is a fast-growing, evergreen ground cover that excels in warm climates, making it a versatile choice for erosion control plants. Growing 6–12 inches tall, it spreads rapidly via runners, covering up to 10 feet in USDA zones 7–10. Its glossy, dark green leaves and small, fragrant white flowers add aesthetic appeal, while its dense root system anchors soil effectively. Available on Amazon in 25-packs of starter plants, Asian Jasmine is ideal for sunny or partially shaded slopes in warm regions, offering quick coverage and low maintenance.
Price: $9.99
Key Features and Benefits:
- Rapid spread ensures quick coverage within one season.
- Thrives in sun or partial shade, offering versatility.
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round erosion control.
- Fragrant flowers enhance garden aesthetics.
Pros:
- Versatile light tolerance suits various conditions.
- Deer-resistant, ideal for wildlife-prone areas.
- Low maintenance once established.
Cons:
- Not cold-hardy, limited to USDA zones 7–10.
- May become invasive in some areas, requiring monitoring.
Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: With a 4.5-star average from 300+ reviews, customers praise Asian Jasmine’s fast growth and lush appearance. Many highlight its effectiveness on warm-climate slopes, though some note the need to control its spread.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Asian Jasmine is a fast, reliable solution for warm-climate erosion control, offering both beauty and functionality.
Ideal Use Case: Southern homeowners with sunny or partially shaded slopes seeking a fast-growing, evergreen ground cover.
V. How to Choose the Right Erosion Control Plant for Your Needs
Selecting the right erosion control plants depends on several key factors:
- Climate and USDA Hardiness Zone: Check your zone to ensure plant survival (e.g., Creeping Juniper for zones 3–9, Asian Jasmine for zones 7–10).
- Sun Exposure: Match plants to your site’s light conditions (e.g., Creeping Phlox for full sun, Japanese Spurge for full shade).
- Soil Type: Consider soil conditions, such as dry, rocky (Weeping Lovegrass) or wet, boggy (Ostrich Fern).
- Maintenance Level and Budget: Opt for low-maintenance plants like Mondo Grass or budget-friendly seeds like Riverbank Lupine for large areas.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Choose flowering plants (Creeping Phlox) or evergreens (Creeping Juniper) based on desired look.
Decision-Making Tips: For sunny slopes, Creeping Juniper or Rockspray Cotoneaster offers durability and appeal. For shaded areas, Big Blue Lilyturf or Japanese Spurge excels. Coastal properties benefit from Mondo Grass’s salt tolerance, while wet areas suit Ostrich Fern. For large-scale projects, seed-based options like Weeping Lovegrass or Riverbank Lupine are cost-effective. Complement plants with erosion control blankets or terracing for severe erosion cases to enhance effectiveness.
VI. How to Plant and Maintain Erosion Control Plants
Planting Tips:
- Prepare soil with compost or organic matter to promote root establishment.
- Space plants according to their spread (e.g., 12–18 inches for Creeping Phlox, 2–3 feet for Creeping Juniper).
- Use mulch or erosion control fabric to reduce runoff during establishment.
Maintenance Tips:
- Water regularly (1–2 times per week) until plants are established, typically 1–2 seasons.
- Prune aggressive spreaders like Creeping Phlox or Asian Jasmine to control growth.
- Monitor for pests (e.g., slugs on ferns) or invasive tendencies (e.g., Asian Jasmine in warm climates).
Long-Term Care: Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. Check for soil compaction or runoff issues annually to ensure plants remain effective. Regular weeding during establishment prevents competition, ensuring long-term soil stabilization.
VII. FAQs
What are the fastest-growing erosion control plants?
Creeping Phlox and Asian Jasmine are among the fastest, providing coverage within one season in ideal conditions.
Can erosion control plants grow in shade?
Yes, Big Blue Lilyturf, Japanese Spurge, and Ostrich Fern thrive in shaded areas, making them ideal for north-facing or wooded slopes.
How do I prevent plants from becoming invasive?
Monitor aggressive spreaders like Asian Jasmine or Creeping Phlox, pruning or thinning as needed. Choose non-invasive natives like Riverbank Lupine for eco-friendly options.
Are these plants safe for pets or wildlife?
Most are safe, but Riverbank Lupine is toxic if ingested. Check plant toxicity and keep pets away from seeded areas until established.
VIII. Conclusion
Erosion can wreak havoc on your landscape, but the best 10 erosion control plants offer a natural, sustainable solution. From the sunny-slope durability of Creeping Juniper to the shade-tolerant lushness of Big Blue Lilyturf, our curated list provides options for every need and climate. Each plant has been rigorously selected based on Amazon reviews, horticultural expertise, and real-world performance to ensure you find the perfect fit. Protect your property and enhance its beauty by choosing one of these top-rated plants today. Click the Amazon links to start stabilizing your landscape with confidence.
