A fast-growing climber that thrives in bright indirect light and tolerates (perhaps even prefers) standing water, betel leaf (Piper betle) is one of the most attractive medicinal herbs we grow. Glossy, heart-shaped leaves can overflow from hanging baskets or climb wooden stands or fences. It requires a rich soil, regular water and will tolerate full sun if watered well.
Pick a less windy spot with partial shade for planting It thrives well in a hot and humid environment in partial shade
Occasional feeding in every couple of month in growing season of the plant with nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer like manure or compost is recommended.
It prefers slightly acidic, sandy-loamy and lightly damp soil but not water logged. Use the well drained potting mix to plant it in a way that water will drain out from it quickly.
Prune regularly after it reaches 2 m. height to control the plant, regular pruning, and plucking of leaves encourages new growth and sweet and tender leaves.
Keep it indoors in winters when the temperature starts to fall below 41F (5C) in a warm and cozy room under grow light. It becomes dormant in brutal cold and sometimes shed its leaves too, but get to grow again in spring and remain in growth until fall.
Betel leaf is a rare herb for rest of the world except Asia, though it has many medicinal benefits. Its leaves are especially helpful for clearing the bronchial passages, cough, and cold and for the female reproductive system.
