Three bamboo shoots are a kind of vegetable, also called hairy bamboo shoots or long bamboo shoots. Three bamboo shoots, which grow in spring, are tender and crisp, and are a delicious and healthy food. Three bamboo shoots are rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, and are known as "promoting blood circulation and resolving phlegm, clearing heart fire and improving eyesight, invigorating spleen and kidney, and promoting digestion".

In some areas of China, bamboo shoots also have some cultural meanings besides food. For example, in a place called yaoan in Kunming, Yunnan, people will pick three bamboo shoots on March 3rd every year, as a ceremony of ancestor worship and blessing, which represents a good harvest and peace and smoothness in the new year.

In addition, in some folk legends and sayings, three bamboo shoots also have some special meanings. For example, "three bamboo shoots are above one official" means that people should be honest, diligent, cautious and careful when they hold official positions or do things, in order to become an excellent leader and manager.