Oh and as a reminder, I'm in zone 8b.

I put off for years trying to avoid growing a lawn on a slope and needed something for erosion. I tried wildflower mixes for a few years, but weed and the short span of it really looking good had me change it up. I finally succumbed to (lawn) grass. But I do have some Asiatic Jasmine that is a good groundcover, works in shade and 1/2 day sun. But then you may get neighbors to shoot this down too as it has a growth pattern like English Ivy.
I had considered planting various grasses. There are numerous in color and heights. I went with a tiered planter area and lawn to keep the flow going.
Question about snakes? Well? I've seen a snake in the wildflowers, in my A.Jasmine and on my freshly cut lawn . . .so not so sure if I would use that for a decision maker.

Try contacting Bill Finch at the Mobile Botanical Garden or the ACES county agent on Schillinger Road.