Published: 26th of June, 2024 by Patrick Carpen

Last updated: February 25, 2026 at 19:49 pm

It is a hardy perennial herb that grows wild as bush with little care in tropical regions of the world. This plant can grow up to six feet in height with slender reddish branches and stems, and green leaves. It often appears almost magically in some places without being planted. The plant can survive harsh climates and grow on almost any type of soil. The plant produces abundant seeds that scatter about in the wind and germinates effortlessly which explains why it often appears to grow wild without deliberate planting.

This plant goes by the scientific name Amaranthus dubius, and it is called many different things by people of different parts of the world. In Guyana, South America, Amaranthus dubius is called “red stem bhajee,” or “red stem callaloo.” Amaranthus dubius is also called red spinach, Chinese spinach, chowrai, caterpillar bhajee, callaloo (Jamaica), malabar callaloo, cow pen bhajee, Trinidad bhajee, zeypinah (St. Lucia), deer bhajee, lal shak (Bangladesh), umbido (southern parts of Africa), etc.

Amaranthus dubius is most prolific in and native to South America, Mexico, and the West Indies, but is constantly being introduced to other parts of the world due its nutritious and tasty food value. Although Amaranthus dubius grows as easily as wild bush in any type of soil and requires very little care and maintenance, it is actually a valuable, edible plant that is both tasty and nutritious.

While there are several varieties of Amaranthus dubius, the variety used as food by Guyanese is the one with the reddish stems and green leaves. It is cooked and used to supplement other foods such as curry and rice, roti, dhal with rice and meats, etc. Amaranthus dubius is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and carries a wide range of health benefits.

Nutrition Profile of Amaranthus dubius

Red stem bhajee is considered a nutrient-dense leafy vegetable. It contains:

Iron
Calcium
Magnesium
Potassium
Folate
Vitamin A (from beta-carotene)
Vitamin C
Vitamin K
Dietary fiber
Plant protein
Antioxidants

It is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it an excellent food for overall health.

Vitamins and Minerals Explained

Vitamin A

Supports good eyesight, healthy skin, and a strong immune system.

Vitamin C

Helps the body fight infections, improves iron absorption, and supports healthy skin and healing.

Vitamin K

Important for blood clotting and strong bones.

Iron

Helps prevent anemia and supports energy production by carrying oxygen in the blood.

Calcium

Strengthens bones and teeth.

Folate

Important for cell growth and especially important during pregnancy.

Magnesium and Potassium

Support heart health, muscle function, and proper nerve activity.

Health Benefits

Regular consumption of red stem bhajee may help:

Improve blood health due to its iron content
Strengthen bones because of calcium and vitamin K
Support the immune system
Promote healthy digestion due to fiber
Reduce oxidative stress because of antioxidants
Support heart health

Because it is plant-based and nutrient-rich, it fits well into balanced diets.

Red Stem Calaloo is Recommended For:

Elderly People

Helps maintain strong bones
Supports heart health
Provides easily digestible nutrients

Children

Supports growth and development
Helps prevent iron deficiency
Boosts immunity

Athletes

Provides minerals needed for muscle function
Supports recovery due to antioxidants
Contains plant protein for muscle repair

People Needing More Energy

Iron helps reduce tiredness caused by anemia
Nutrients support overall metabolism

People Focused on Muscle Growth

Provides plant protein and magnesium
Supports muscle contraction and recovery

Pregnant Women

Folate supports healthy fetal development
(As always, dietary needs during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider.)

Though often treated as common bush or wild greens, Amaranthus dubius—known in Guyana as red stem bhajee or red stem callaloo—is a highly nutritious leafy vegetable. It grows easily, requires little care, and provides significant health benefits. What may appear to be ordinary roadside bush is, in fact, a valuable and powerful food source.

Legal Notice: This article is presented to you for informational purposes only. It is not professional advice. Although based on thorough research and authoritative sources, no warranty is given, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy of the information contained herein.