Mold or fungus on crepe myrtle trees - Ask Extension
I have two crepe myrtle trees in a location that doesn't drain well and I noticed how the bark and leaves have black on them. I also noticed that the...
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Mold or fungus on crepe myrtle trees #909881
Asked July 15, 2025, 7:06 AM EDT
I have two crepe myrtle trees in a location that doesn't drain well and I noticed how the bark and leaves have black on them. I also noticed that the branches have a white fungus growing on them. How do I treat this problem or who can I call since the trees are higher than my pump sprayer can reach. I live in Cape St. Clair Maryland.
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi Richard,
From your description, you most likely have an infestation of Crapemyrtle bark scale. It is an introduced soft scale that can be difficult to treat because of their waxy coating. They exude a lot of honeydew (a clear sticky substance) in which a mold grows (sooty mold). I think that is the black you are seeing on leaves and branches.
You may want to seek out a certified arborist to make a positive identification and treatment plan, since they are beyond the reach of your sprayer.
Marie
