Straits Rhododendron

Common Name: Straits Rhododendron, Common Sendudok, Singapore Rhododendron, Indian Rhododendron, Sesenduk, Malabar Gooseberry, Sendudok, Senduduk (Malay)

Scientific Name: Melastoma malabathricum

Family: Melastomatacea

Genus: Melastoma

General Facts:

• It can rapidly colonise wastelands with their seeds dispersed by birds. By doing so, it helps to prevent soil erosion and to allow regeneration of vegetation.


• The pink flowers make it a potential source for extraction of natural colourants. Colour is crucial for plant development as it aids the attraction of pollinators such as birds and insects. The flowers open after sunrise and last only for a day.


• The seeds are tasteless and can be eaten, but they stain the tongue black. In fact, the word melastoma is Greek for "black mouth". They can be used to produce black dyes.


• The young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and they taste sour.


• The leaves are fed to silkworms in some regions and are also used to treat diarrhea and piles.