cress

cress

Any of several plants of the mustard family, of interest for their spicy young basal leaves, which are used in salads and as seasonings and garnishes. Watercress is perhaps the most popular of the edible cresses. Common garden cress, or peppergrass (Lepidium sativum) is widely grown, especially in its curl-leaved form, and used as a garnish. Others include weeds (e.g., Barbarea vulgaris), wild varieties (e.g., Cardamine pratensis), and ornamentals (e.g., Arabis species).

---

cress

any of various plants of the genera Lepidium, Cardamine, Arabis, etc., having pungent-tasting leaves often used in salads and as a garnish: family Brassicaceae (crucifers)

---

cress [kres]

(botany)

Any of several prostrate crucifers belonging to the order Capparales and grown for their flavorful leaves; includes watercress (Nasturtium officinale), garden cress (Lepidium sativum), and upland or spring cress (Barbarea verna).