Mealybugs

Your infestation is mealybugs. You can tell by the fact that they have a cottony, fuzzy appearance and feel sticky. Mealybugs suck the nutrients out of the plant and will eventually kill it if left untreated. You have a pretty heavy infestation in the photo that you sent. First, we would suggest pruning out and disposing of the affected plant parts. Next you could try to wipe the insects off with a damp cloth dipped in alcohol and follow with a spray of insecticidal soap or pyrethrin by following the directions on the label. You can also spray with an organic control containing Spinosad that has a 7-10 day residual. Spinosad should be sprayed in the early evening after the bees have returned to their hives. Once the spray has dried, it is safe for beneficials.