紫蘇

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 紫蘇 (しそ) is a noun for shiso, an aromatic leafy herb used as a garnish or ingredient.
• Basic usage: 刻んだ紫蘇を麺に添える makes chopped leaves a garnish for noodles, while 庭の紫蘇から香りが漂う makes the growing plant the source of aroma.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Prepared leaves and living plant
  • 紫蘇を添える concerns leaves prepared for eating, whereas 庭の紫蘇 is a growing plant. The word is not an abstract noun for aroma alone.