Piper betle, commonly known as Betel, is a dioecious perennial vine native to the understory of moist, shaded forests in Southeast Asia, including India, Tamil Nadu, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and the Lesser Sunda Islands, as well as Indochina, encompassing Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. It typically climbs to heights of 1 meter or more, using its adventitious roots to adhere to supports. Betel has heart-shaped, glossy, deep green leaves that are both ornamental and culturally significant, as they are used for chewing in combination with the areca nut. The vine produces small, inconspicuous white flowers throughout the year, which are followed by small, berry-like fruits when pollinated.

Betel is valued for its cultural importance and the medicinal properties of its leaves, which are used in traditional medicine and as a stimulant when chewed with areca nut. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist, well-drained soil, and thrives in partial to full shade, mimicking its native forest floor environment. It is often grown in containers or hanging baskets in regions outside its native range. While it is not typically grown for its ornamental qualities, the vine can be used to provide a lush, tropical feel to gardens. Gardeners should be aware that Piper betle needs regular watering and high humidity to prosper. It is potentially invasive in some regions, so it is crucial to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0