How to write 苔

苔 [tái] 1. A type of cryptogam, where the distinctions between roots, stems, and leaves are not obvious; commonly grows in damp and shaded places. Example: 青苔 (green moss), 苔藓 (moss), 苔原 (mossy plain). 2. Plant name; also known as 地衣 (lichen) or 水衣 (water lichen). Belongs to the category of cryptogams, with indistinct roots, stems, and leaves, appearing in colors like green, purple, etc. Often grows in damp places, spreading on the ground, hence also called "地衣" ([En.] lichen; mosses). 3. Objects or places that are covered with mosses ([En.] mossy place). Example: 苔砌 (steps covered with moss), 苔梅 (plum trees with moss growing on their roots). 苔 [tāi] 1. Refers to "舌苔" (shétāi), which means the coating on the tongue. 2. The coating on the tongue formed by dead epithelial cells and mucus; its color can help in diagnosing ailments. 3. See also tái.