Betel Leaf (Piper betle)
Regular price $29.95Native to Southeast Asia, the heart-shaped Betel Leaf has been a staple to Ayurvedic tradition for centuries.
Down any busy street in India, you’d be surrounded by the stimulant ‘paan’ consisting of Betel Leaf and areca nut, chewed after meals as a stimulant. The herb has long been used for oral hygiene and digestion and, when crushed, gives off a mild peppery aroma. In traditional Indian culture, to give a sheaf of betel leaves was to offer respect. As an antiseptic, it can be used for treating pimples or small scrapes.
Betel Leaf is commonly grown on the sides of temples and can climb quickly with the help of a trellis. Very ornamental groundcover. Related to Lolot, Hoja Santa, and Black Pepper.
Plant Type:
Perennial Herb, Vine
Harvest Season:
Year-Round
Mature Size:
A Vining/ground cover type, Betel Leaf grows from anywhere from 3 ft tall to 10 ft wide
Soil & Moisture:
Slightly acidic, sandy, damp soil.
Light Requirements:
Shade, Part Shade
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
