Red galangal, a flavorful rhizome, is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine for its spicy, peppery taste and aromatic qualities, adding depth to soups, curries, and stir-fries. It grows to about 3-5 feet tall with lush foliage, making it an excellent addition to food forests for its soil-enriching properties and ability to attract pollinators. For optimal growth, plant in well-draining, fertile soil with partial shade to full sun, water regularly, and harvest the rhizomes after 10-12 months during the dry season.