reishi mushroom and thoroughwort; fragrant plants
Classical Chinese-derived term for two specific fragrant plants: 霊芝 (reishi mushroom) and 藤袴 (thoroughwort). Used metaphorically in old texts to evoke refinement or virtue.
See also: 霊芝 (れいし) · フジバカマ (ふじばかま)
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
Rare literary adjective-like use, typically in the pattern 芝蘭の～, meaning 'of talent/virtue'. Found in classical or highly formal writing.
In Chinese poetry, 芝蘭 sometimes symbolizes the virtue of a noble person.
The phrase 芝蘭の友 refers to a virtuous friend.
From classical Chinese, combining 芝 (a type of fragrant fungus) and 蘭 (orchid-like fragrant plant). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the spelling is conventionally associated with refinement and virtue.