松(まつ)

松(まつ) refers to pine trees, evergreen conifers symbolic of longevity and good fortune in Japanese culture.

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE:
Pine is one of the "Three Friends of Winter" (松竹梅(しょうちくばい): pine, bamboo, plum), representing endurance and good fortune.

COMMON COMPOUNDS:

• 松竹梅(しょうちくばい): pine-bamboo-plum (used as ranking: top/middle/basic)
• 門松(かどまつ): New Year's pine decoration placed at entrances
• 松茸(まつたけ): matsutake mushroom (prized delicacy)
• 松林(まつばやし): pine forest
• 松原(まつばら): pine grove

RELATED TREES:

• 竹(たけ): bamboo
• 梅(うめ): plum
• 杉(すぎ): cedar