Question
Hi Jim

I have come to you seveal times and you have always been very helpful.

My HOA is finally considering removing the sycamore/london plane tree from our small front yard and replacing it with something else.

I have recommended the Pink Velour Crape Myrtle.  I went to wwww.fast-growing-trees.com to inqauire about the tree and they say the tree will grow in zones 7-10.  According to them, Richmond, CA is a zone 9-10.  This would seem to indicate that we could grow the trees relatively well.

But the HOA arborist says that the "weather" is bad and the tree will not tolerate it.

My question to you is..."Isn't the weather a factor in figuirng out one zone from another?"  We have quite a bit of wind, and it is not uncommon for the skies to clear up at noon (when it gets sunny).  My HOA of course will not let me talk to their arborist, so I can't ask him anything.

Answer
Yes the hardiness zones are based for the most part on climate--(freezing weather and hot drought)This tree will grow well there. It does not grow very tall but is showy with its flowers. Great for a small yard. Check with your local tree nursery and if they sell it it is a good tree for your area. What tree species does the HOA want and why? I would ask that and try to encourage smaller species that give color to the area. I hope this is what you are asking.