The crape myrtle was first brought to the Southease by early settlers. Originally from Asia, this shrub or small tree had lavender or purple flower; red and white varieties are now available as well. All varieties have showy flowers and are susceptible to relatively few insect pests. In view of the many attributes of this ornamental plant, it is surprising that fewer than 250,000 are produced and sold by Southern nurserymen each year.

KEY TO COMMON AND IMPORTANT CRAPE MYRTLE PESTS

1. Crapemyrtle aphid -The foliage is covered with sooty mold and honeydew excreted by aphids; the small, green aphids are visible on the lower surfaces of leaves.

Return to AG-189 Table of Contents