Question
I have about 1 acre on a slope, with an underground spring keeping a swale wet 9 months of the year (dries most summers.)  Not too much standing water except after it rains, just a trickling little "stream" most times that absorbs into the ground at the end. In some areas it gets some direct afternoon sun and other parts filtered sun from high canopy trees.  
I don't want to regrade, rather utilize plants that may like this environment.  Any suggestions?  I am in Zone 5.

Thanks!

Answer
I use an online plant selection program for general ideas for plants (www.growit.com) understanding that it is from Texas, so Texas-growing plants are favored.  When selecting, just input "zone 5" & "soil condition wet".

Generally, any plant found on a creek edge will tolerate or even prefer wet conditions.  Some that LIKE wet conditions are:  Birch, Willow, Aspens, Reeds, Papyrus, Iris, Equisine (horsetail),Violas.  

And, there are many that will TOLERATE it...see your plant-selector's output which will include some that you wouldn't think would work: oaks, pines, and even magnolia!

If you want smaller plants (like perennials & annuals) then yo'll have to see what your local nursery has available and check with them.

Hope it helps. -Marc