Love of the Divine Tree arrives as an enchanting Xianxia romance. The series – directed by Yin Tao (known for Under the Power and Love and Redemption) – is an adaptation of a popular web novel, headlined by Deng Wei and Xiang Hanzhi. Early episodes set a playful, slightly offbeat tone, blending heartfelt fantasy with wry humor. The mismatched duo at the center, a legendary sect leader reborn as a frail disciple, and the disciple who now must guard her – promise a story that feels both mythic and refreshingly original.
Profile
Title: Love of the Divine Tree (仙台有树)
Genre: Xianxia, Fantasy Romance, Costume Drama
Release Date: February 7, 2025 – February 26, 2025
Number of Episodes: 40
Starring: Deng Wei, Xiang Hanzhi, Chen Xinhai, Zhang Weina
Writer: Liu Fang (screenplay; based on novel by Kuang Shang Jia Kuang)
Directed by: Yin Tao
Original Network: iQIYI (China)
Streaming: iQIYI International (Love Theater)
Country: China
Synopsis
Two decades ago, Mu Qingge sealed a demonic spring at the cost of her life and was branded a villain. Reborn as the frail Xue Ranran, she awakens in the West Mountain Sect she once led. Her devoted disciple, Su Yishui, now head of the sect, learns the truth and sacrifices half his life force to restore her. Roles reversed, the once-formidable master becomes the pupil, relying on Su Yishui for protection and care.
Amid grand temples and misty peaks, their secret alliance sparks conflicts: eager marriage proposals, rival cultivators, and ancient conspiracies resurface. Su Yishui’s childhood friend Su Yu stands loyal, while the earnest Wei Jiu vies for Ranran’s heart. As a sinister demon cultivator threatens the realm, Ranran and Su Yishui navigate court intrigue, magical mishaps, and sharp-tongued banter in a journey that marries epic stakes with playful romance.
Character Dynamics and Performances
Su Yishui (Deng Wei):
Once a fierce child prodigy, Su Yishui is now a thoughtful leader learning to shoulder impossible guilt. Deng Wei imbues him with quiet strength and humor; his gentle eyes betray the turmoil of a hero torn between duty and love. Watching Deng Wei play both brooding protector and hapless teacher (complete with pouty pout and surprises) is a treat – he even manages to make a once-intimidating disciple role oddly endearing.
Xue Ranran / Mu Qingge (Xiang Hanzhi):
Xiang Hanzhi’s dual-role performance is the show’s emotional anchor. As the legendary Mu Qingge she’s regal and willful; as the reincarnated Ranran she’s willfully oblivious and delightfully stubborn. Xiang’s expressive face sells every mood swing, from ice-cold sovereign to cheeky young girl. The chemistry between her and Deng Wei crackles: she can be a demanding “master” one moment, then a doting “student” leaning on him the next, giving their banter a winning mix of spice and sweetness.
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Wei Jiu (Deng Kai):
The earnest Wei Jiu is the swoon-worthy second male lead. Deng Kai brings charm and comedy in equal measure to this lovelorn prince. Wei Jiu’s forthright attempts to woo Ranran (by sashaying in royal robes or grilling ghostly banquet dishes) add welcome levity. Deng Kai also mines nuance in Wei Jiu’s pain: the conflict of a suitor who grudgingly admires Su Yishui adds a poignant layer to what might have been just comic relief.
Su Yu (Chen Xinhai):
As Su Yishui’s adoptive brother, Su Yu is steadfast support. Chen Xinhai plays him with gentleness and loyalty; Su Yu’s quiet smile and reassurance provide a grounded balance to all the cosmic drama. He’s the dependable calm amid madness: whether comforting Su Yishui in a manic mood or sharing a knowing glance with Wei Jiu, Chen Xinhai gives the character heart.
(Honorable Mentions – Supporting Ensemble): The supporting cast delivers nicely as well. Zhang Weina’s Mu Ranwu (a spunky apprentice) brings feisty humor, and Aimee Xu’s gentle Qiu Xier provides friendly compassion. Hu Wei’s veteran hero Bai Baishan shines in his few scenes, and Cao Yuchen’s chatty Zeng Yi is a running gag (often literally announcing plot twists, to comic effect). Even as some villains veer cartoonish, most of the side players elevate the story with earnest performances.
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Is Love of the Divine Tree Worth Watching?
Pros:
Fresh Twist: Flipped master–disciple dynamic breathes new life into Xianxia tropes.
Lead Chemistry: Deng Wei and Xiang Hanzhi’s playful banter and emotional depth carry the series.
Visual Splendor: Lavish costumes, sweeping landscapes, and tasteful CGI enhance every scene.
Emotional Resonance: Themes of guilt, redemption, and found family add genuine pathos.
Cons:
Clichés: Familiar tropes (jealous rivals, expository narration) occasionally emerge.
Pacing Lulls: With 40 episodes, some flashbacks and repeat confessions slow momentum.
Slow Burn Romance: If you crave instant sparks, the gradual build might test patience.
Watch Love of the Divine Tree Trailer
Love of the Divine Tree Cast
Main:
Deng Wei as Su Yishui
Xiang Hanzhi as Mu Qingge / Xue Ranran
Chen Xinhai as Su Yu
Supporting:
Deng Kai as Wei Jiu
Zhang Weina as Mu Ranwu
Aimee Xu as Qiu Xier
Cao Yuchen as Zeng Yi
Special Appearance:
Hu Wei as Bai Baishan
Final Thoughts
Love of the Divine Tree offers a smart blend of fantasy, humor, and heartfelt drama. Its inventive role reversal and strong lead performances make it a standout Xianxia romance, despite occasional pacing issues and familiar genre beats. For fans of epic costume dramas and slow-burn love stories, it’s a richly woven tale well worth the journey.
