Crape Myrtle Scale
Destructive pest on crape myrtles.
Crape myrtle scale is a pest that destroys the bark of crape myrtles. This pest has exploded in the south and can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time.
Scale is best treated in January and early February with horticultural oils. Once mature, however, they can be eaten by beneficial predators such as the ladybug larvae you see in the photo. Amazing!