Question
We have bugs on the branches and when you smash them they're purple.  What are they? We live in the Dallas area

Answer
Sounds like scale insects.  They can cause plant death if not controlled and will surely lower flower quality.  Go buy Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticide from Home Depot.  The product is mixed with water and poured on the soil around the base of the plant.  It is taken up systemically and will kill the bugs within a week or so.  Their bodies wont go away but they will be dead.  I hope this solves your problem.  Good Luck.