depends on the cichlids.
my dwarfs do just fine with a planted tank!
Most larger cichlids will destroy plants though. For Java moss, you could try getting it to cover a piece of rock or driftwood. Once it sticks, it should be pretty secure. The fish will pull off the ends of it, but it should keep growing. I've heard that thicker leaved plants tend to do better, val, swords, java fern, but if the cichlids dig, then you have a different set of problems to them eating the plants.