Question
This tree [?] grows  all over in So. Calif
Friend called this a Ficus....looked up Ficus and there's no pics there that even come close.
looked at palms too ..none looked like this one.
the trunk of these has been known to grow in a curve. trunk usually doesnt branch. the 'branches' [leaves?]  are all at the top and they're long thin semi tough and green  and they all sprout from one center  Imagine a porcupine curled in a ball sitting on top of a pole.
...Even if you're not too sure, Id like to hear what guesses you have.


Answer
it does sound like something in the ficus genus(rubber trees, weeping fig, etc.)- a very large & diverse family of plants. numerous types exist. if you break a leaf or branch off it will ooze a white milky substance. type ficus into your searh engine and view as many pictures as possible.  it could also be in the succulent family. having never been to calif. i couldn't even guess from your description. visit or call a garden center/nursery in that area to see what they think it is. if it's that common they should know the name of it.
good luck
rick
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