莧

Amaranth (//Amaranthus//), specifically edible varieties. It refers to a specific plant rather than serving as a generic term for all vegetables.

Almost exclusively a noun, typically functioning as an object (e.g., gathered, grown, or eaten). Attributive use is possible but rare.

Unlike 菜 (//cài//), which is a generic term for vegetables, 莧 refers to a specific botanical species.

Simplified variant: U+82CB. Fanqie reading: 侯襇.

The choice between "amaranth" and "greens/leafy vegetables" depends on whether the text requires botanical precision (pharmacological or agricultural contexts) or a description of dietary status (humble meals or basic subsistence). When appearing in lists with other specific plants (e.g., 葵, 蒿, 韭), maintain botanical specificity; when standing alone as a food item, it may function as a synecdoche for simple, rustic fare.