There is, but note that I write from a particularly rural perspective here, so it might not jive well with the more suburban sensibilities I've read from your c

There is, but note that I write from a particularly rural perspective here, so it might not jive well with the more suburban sensibilities I've read from your comment. Your mileage may vary. That said, you can look into growing grasses°, sedges, hostas, and wildflowers that are indigenous to your geographic region. Become good friends with the folks at your local nursery, and they'll be glad to help you out. °: not things like Kentucky bluegrass (which isn't indigenous to North America) or the various types of fescue (many of which are native to Europe); more like buffalograss and Canada wild rye