Also known as Basé · Betel Leaf · Betel Pepper
Betel (Piper betle) is an evergreen perennial vine in the Piperaceae family, native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. It is cultivated for its edible leaves.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Some shade is beneficial.
Consistently Moist
75% intensity
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 2.5 cm of soil feels dry.
Well-draining, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Piper betle prefers consistently moist soil. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months but do not allow the soil to dry out completely. Good drainage is essential to prevent fungal issues.
Prune Piper betle to maintain a desired shape and encourage bushier growth. Trim back leggy stems and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Regular pinching of the tips of new shoots will promote branching.
Pruning can be done anytime during the growing season.
Propagate Piper betle through stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems, ensuring each has at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant the cuttings in a moist, well-draining potting mix and keep in a warm, humid environment.
Repot Piper betle every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally a blend of peat, perlite, and compost.
Repot in the spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Betel (Piper betle)
Where Betel (Piper betle) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Piperaceae |
| Genus | Piper |
| Species | Piper betle |
Similar in genus Piper
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
