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 () is widely grown, especially in its curl-leaved form, and used as a garnish. Others include weeds (e.g., ), wild varieties (e.g., ), and ornamentals (e.g., species).

Find more information on cress. Upgrade to Britannica Online for more on cress.