I just bought one of these plants this past week - I hope that mine grows up to look like this.

We have some in our yard and they are gorgeous. Don't try to cut them for a vase though, they ooze out white liquid when you you cut them and they wilt completely in a day or so.

We have a bunch of Eurphorbia out front and they are awesome. Every year they just get cooler and cooler. I love it! Ours are paired with some flax and lavendar. Simply stunning.

Euphorbia characias ssp. wulfenii is the exact name.

Another good euphorbia is e. robbiae. It tolerates some shade and dry conditions (as those under trees) and has super glossy deep green leaves. It makes a good groundcover, with the added bonus of easy propagation and chartreuse flowers in spring. :)

We too have these planted in our front yard...they are thriving and lord knows I don't water them much. I'm glad to see them here on AT.

Most euphorbias are mildly toxic; the sap from some species can cause irritate exposed skin or temporarily blind you if you get it in your eyes.

If you're in/around LA, do some research into Coastal Sage plant communities - there are tons of native plants that are perfectly suited for use in your area. Las Pilitas and Tree of Life are two great native-plant nurseries between LA/SD who provide tons of resources on their respective websites.

Isn't this was is also commonly called "gopher purge" because it makes the little bugger sick if they chew on the roots? Good for a natural perimeter around a veggie garden. I've never seen it in bloom. Very pretty in a xeriscape garden.

http://www.mountainvalleygrowers.com/euplathyrus.htm