Betel Leaf

There are many herbs in The Renaissance range. Some are essential to any good kitchen, others are a bit exotic and some are special and make up our Premium Collection. Betel Leaf is an Asian herb that will give your cooking a lift into the exotic. It is often confused with Betel Pepper

Food Style and Partners

A popular herb in south east Asian dishes where it is widely used in salads and stirfries. In Thailand it is used in one of their popular curries but is major application is to wrap meats and vegetables. The pepper glands on the leaf add a piquant taste to the meat. It works best with the more delicate meats like chicken and seafood.

Health/Cooking/Medicinal

An easy to use herb which can be used like any other leafy vegetable. Can be used as a garnish or under rice etc. Reported to have medicinal benefits when used as a tea or chewed to help to relieve colds and diseases of the respiratory tract. Fruit is also supposed to be beneficial for inflammation.

Landscaping/Planting

This is a medium shrub with an upright habit and creeping rhizomes. It has large heart-shaped leaves with pungent oil glands on the upper side. Prefers rich opens soils in a warm position with filtered light.

Cultivation/Fertiliser

Pick leaves as needed and give regular applications of Seasol and Powerfeed to keep the plant healthy and producing well.

Herb Attributes