The ‘Divine Plumeria’ is an exquisite and highly desirable variety, known for its stunning aesthetics and intoxicating fragrance. This particular cultivar offers a distinct charm, making it a favored choice for gardeners and enthusiasts seeking both beauty and aromatic presence.
Understanding Divine Plumeria Characteristics
Divine Plumeria flowers typically measure around three inches across, though for miniature varieties like ‘Divine,’ they can be smaller, ranging from one to two inches. These blooms feature five rounded, overlapping petals, displaying a captivating blend of pink, white, and yellow hues, often with pink veins and a peachy-yellow center. The intensity of these colors can become more pronounced in warmer temperatures.
As a dwarf variety, ‘Divine’ is readily maintained at about four feet tall, with a tendency to spread outward rather than upward. The plant exhibits dense growth, and its branches tend to grow shorter as it matures, often developing numerous tips—reportedly between 45 to 70 tips on a two-foot tree. Its leaves are notably thick and possess a shiny texture.
A key differentiator for this variety is its “wonderfully strong perfume scent,” described as a tropical floral and fruity note with a citrus undertone. The fragrance is often compared to a blend of jasmine, citrus, and gardenia, sometimes even hinting at coconut or vanilla, and is most potent during the early evening and nighttime hours.
Essential Care for Divine Plumeria
Providing adequate sunlight is fundamental for this plant. It requires a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage profuse flowering. In regions where temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, providing some afternoon shade can prevent scorching of leaves and flowers.
Watering practices are important for Divine Plumeria, which prefers consistent moisture without being waterlogged. During its active growing season and blooming period, regular watering is beneficial, checking the top inch of soil and watering when it feels dry. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot, a common issue for plumerias, and droopy leaves can signal either too much or too little water. During dormancy, watering should be significantly reduced or stopped entirely until new growth emerges in spring. Some observations suggest ‘Divine’ may require slightly more water than other plumeria varieties.
The ideal growing medium for Divine Plumeria is well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, generally between 6.0 and 7.0, with an optimal range often cited as 6.5 to 7.0 or 6.0 to 6.7. A cactus mix or a blend of potting soil with perlite or sand provides the necessary drainage and aeration. Good aeration helps prevent moisture accumulation around the roots.
A consistent fertilization schedule supports vigorous growth and flowering. Utilizing a fertilizer with a high phosphorus content, such as a 5-30-5 NPK blend, is recommended to encourage abundant blooms. Fertilize regularly during the growing season, typically every two to three weeks. Fertilizers high in nitrogen should be used sparingly as they tend to promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Fertilization should be withheld completely once the plant enters its dormant phase.
Divine Plumeria performs best within a temperature range of 65-80°F [18-27°C]. Temperatures below 50°F [10°C] will typically cause the plant to drop its leaves and enter dormancy. The plant has a limited tolerance for cold, with 40°F [4°C] being its approximate lower limit, and freezing temperatures can cause significant damage or death. In cooler climates, growing Divine Plumeria in containers allows for easy relocation indoors when temperatures drop. While adaptable, these tropical plants appreciate higher humidity levels.
Propagating Divine Plumeria
Propagating Divine Plumeria is effectively achieved through stem cuttings. The most favorable time to take cuttings is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should typically be between 12 to 18 inches in length. Most of the leaves should be removed from the cutting, leaving only a few small ones at the very tip.
After taking the cuttings, it is important to allow the cut end to form a callus. This process involves letting the cutting dry for one to three weeks in a warm, dry location away from direct sunlight, ensuring good air circulation. Callusing is a protective measure that helps prevent rot once planted. Dipping the callused end into rooting hormone powder, after briefly wetting it, can enhance rooting success.
Plant the prepared cutting into a well-draining rooting medium. A mixture of two-thirds perlite and one-third potting soil, or a cactus mix amended with perlite or sand, provides excellent drainage. Insert the cutting about halfway or three to four inches deep into the pot, and stake it for support if needed. Water thoroughly after planting, then allow the soil to dry out considerably between subsequent waterings to prevent rot. Providing bottom heat, maintaining a temperature between 75-85°F, can accelerate root development, with roots typically forming within 45 to 90 days.
Troubleshooting Common Divine Plumeria Problems
Gardeners may encounter several common issues when cultivating Divine Plumeria. A lack of blooms often indicates insufficient sunlight, as the plant requires at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily for prolific flowering. Incorrect fertilization, such as an excess of nitrogen or a deficiency in phosphorus, can also deter blooming. Immature plants may also not flower readily.
Leaf yellowing or dropping can stem from various factors. Overwatering is a frequent cause, leading to root problems, while underwatering can also stress the plant. During cooler temperatures, typically below 50°F, plumerias naturally drop their leaves as they enter dormancy. If yellowing occurs during the growing season, it might suggest over-fertilization or nutrient depletion in the soil.
Pests
Spider mites, indicated by tiny webs and speckled leaves, thrive in dry conditions. Solution: High-pressure water spray, neem oil. Mealybugs appear as white, waxy masses and excrete a sticky substance (honeydew), leading to warped leaves. Solution: Rubbing alcohol on Q-tip, systemic insecticide, blast with water, neem oil. Scale insects, recognized by small, yellowish/dark brown shells, also cause stickiness. Solution: Rubbing alcohol on Q-tip, weak soap solution, systemic insecticide.
Fungal Issues
Fungal issues are another concern, especially in wet or humid conditions. Root rot, characterized by wilting/drooping leaves, yellowing leaves, a soft/blackened stem base, and foul-smelling roots, is primarily caused by overwatering and cool/wet conditions. Often fatal. Black Tip Fungus manifests as black spots on leaf stalks, midribs, and branch tips. Caused by wet/cold conditions. Solution: Remove affected leaves, ensure sun/warmth, fungicide. Rust presents as yellow-orange powdery pustules on leaves, leading to rapid defoliation. Solution: Remove infected leaves, fungicide.