What kind of plants are best to plant beside a dry creek bed?

What kind of plants are best to plant beside, or even in, a dry creek bed? Sometimes it does have water in it when it rains hard. I have plenty of Border Grass to randomly plant and Cannas. Also have plenty of Hosta that I can get for free. I was thinking of some Ornamental Grass might be more appropriate. It run directly from the top level patio area and then down in front of the house so would like to also have some color, if possible. Will be building a small type bridge to go across it to the front steps. Can also use suggestions on a small bridge that would look good. Thank you for any suggestions.

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