Common name: Queen's Tears, Friendship Plant
Family: Bromeliaceae
Genus: Billbergia
Species nutans
Great picture! I have had this plant in my yard for about 15 years, too. My aunt had some in Sunland, CA. I had it for years before I knew what it was. I have given out dozens of "children" and they thrive pretty well, even in colder areas (Washington state). It is indeed a great plant to give to friends!
Thanks!
Same here - this one spreads like wildfire if happy, and I'm running out of friends... ;)