Question

cotton candy on leaves   One of the shrubs in my yard is being overwhelmed with a thick covering of what looks like white cotton candy or steel wool hanging from the leaves.  They started on the lower leaves, but now the whole bottom half of the plant is covered.  The bird of paradise plant next to it is now showing some signs of the infection/infestation.  There are also beautiful white patterns (like crop circles!) on the leaves if you look in closely.  Additionally, i see lots of little white cotton balls flying around the plant that when you look very closely are actually some sort of winged insect.

How are these all related, will they harm the plant, and what can I do to remove the insects and the cotton candy?

Here is a link to several pictures of the infestation: https://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/108124083120711555064/albums/5666762539628713745

Answer
Dave:
No disease here.  Your images appear as the waxy deposits(spirals and long strands) of whitefly.  This may be the giant whitefly.  This insect has a number of plants that it feeds on.  Often, when you shake they fly up- looking like "plant dandruff".  It is considered a pest of many ornamentals.  They can be difficult to control.  You may consider a light summer oil.  There are several insecticides that can be used for these "critters".  Check in with your local nursery/garden center for some effective products for your particular plants in your area. Always read the label for mixing and application instructions.

Regards
Steve