I don't know where you're from, but in the Eastern U.S., Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, Prairie Dropseed, Indian Grass, and Muhly Grass are great options. They are the top prairie species and grow in clumps from 2-6 feet tall. Grow them along the edges of the yard in swathes, and put mulch elsewhere. Their roots are very deep, and thus they require no water after they're established, have beautiful fall displays, and take a beating. They provide tons of seeds and hiding places for birds, support specific species of butterflies and moths, and are so much more interesting than grass. I pull the old stems in spring, since they start to fall off on their own, and add it to the wood chips. Can't go wrong.
I don't know where you're from, but in the Eastern U.S., Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, Prairie Dropseed, Indian Grass, and Muhly Grass are great options. They are the top prairie species and grow in clumps from 2-6 feet tall. Grow them along the edges of the yard in swathes, and put mulch elsewhere. Their roots are very deep, and thus they require no water after they're established, have beautiful fall displays, and take a beating. They provide tons of seeds and hiding places for birds, support specific species of butterflies and moths, and are so much more interesting than grass. I pull the old stems in spring, since they start to fall off on their own, and add it to the wood chips. Can't go wrong.