Also known as the crane flower, the Bird of Paradise is a native of South Africa and is related to the banana. Its name comes from its unique flower, which resembles a brightly colored bird in flight. Its leaves are leather-like and are attached to a stiff stalk. The plant is able to be used both in large plantings or as the focal point in the landscape. The leaves are evergreen and do not drop from the plant, making it an excellent adornment poolside. The showy bloom actually is a combination of blue petals and orange sepals that emerge from a modified leaf. Plants are able to produce as many as three dozen flower spikes a year, which will last up to two weeks when cut.