Renealmia occidentalis is commonly called "Puerto Rican Ginger" because it is native to Puerto Rico. Other common names include Red Renealmia and Bijao.

The plant has tall stems, from 6-8 feet tall, with long, narrow leaves. It produces basal inflorescences with small yellow flowers and red berries (seeds) from December through June. The berries turn dark purple to black when ripe.

This plant does best in shade to part-sun, with rich, moist soil. Hardy in USDA Zone 11.