芝し蘭らん

noun

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)

• 漢かん詩しでは、芝し蘭らんは君くん子しの徳とくをたとえることがある。

  In Chinese poetry, 芝蘭 sometimes symbolizes the virtue of a noble person.

noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'

talented; virtuous

Rare literary adjective-like use, typically in the pattern 芝蘭の～, meaning 'of talent/virtue'. Found in classical or highly formal writing.

• 「芝し蘭らんの友とも」という言こと葉ばは、徳とくの高たかい友ゆう人じんを指さす。

  The phrase 芝蘭の友 refers to a virtuous friend.