Melastoma malabathricum is a flowering plant species that is native to Southeast Asia. It is also known by several common names such as Indian rhododendron, straits rhododendron, and senduduk. In Indonesia, it is known as tahi ayam or burung solok, while in Malaysia it is called senduduk or pokok senduduk. In Thailand, it is known as yaa nuat maeo and in Myanmar, it is called panhtein-aw. The plant has many uses in traditional medicine, including treating diarrhea, fever, and inflammation. It is also used in the production of textiles and dyes. Despite its medicinal and commercial uses, the plant is considered a weed in many areas and is known to invade disturbed habitats and natural ecosystems.