The family of peppery greens known as cress can cause some confusion in the United States due to the different names used for its various members. Unlike in other regions where "cress" might be a common umbrella term, Americans typically refer to the specific type they are discussing, such as watercress or garden cress. This article will clarify the names, characteristics, and uses of the most common cress varieties found across the US, helping you navigate the world of peppery greens with confidence.
The Three Main Varieties of Cress in the US
To understand what cress is called in the US, it's essential to look at the three most prominent types: watercress, garden cress, and peppergrass.
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
Watercress is perhaps the most well-known cress variety in the United States. It's a perennial aquatic plant that thrives in cool, flowing streams and spring water.
- Appearance: It features small, round to oval-shaped leaflets and hollow stems.
- Flavor: It has a distinctively fresh, peppery, and pungent flavor that is milder and more delicate than garden cress.
- Culinary Uses: Commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and soups. Its popularity in British cuisine has also made it a staple in many classic recipes.
Garden Cress (Lepidium sativum)
Garden cress is a different species from watercress, known for being a fast-growing annual herb. While popular elsewhere, it's not as universally recognized by its general name in the US.
- Appearance: Often sold as microgreens or sprouts, it has serrated or frilly leaves when immature.
- Flavor: It has a sharp, peppery taste, reminiscent of mustard.
- Culinary Uses: Typically used in salads and sandwiches for a sharp, spicy kick. Other common names for garden cress include pepper cress and peppergrass.
Peppergrass (Lepidium virginicum)
Peppergrass is a common wild cress variety native to North America. It is often considered a weed but is appreciated by foragers for its flavor.
- Appearance: Virginia peppergrass, a common type, has a basal rosette of lobed leaves and vertical, branched stems.
- Flavor: Young leaves and seed pods have a mild, peppery flavor.
- Culinary Uses: Can be used in salads, soups, and to flavor meats. Another synonym for peppergrass is poor-man's pepper.
Upland Cress: The American Cousin
Upland cress (Barbarea verna), also known as American cress or winter cress, is another important variety. This biennial plant is native to Europe but is now cultivated and naturalized throughout North America.
- Appearance: It grows jagged, serrated leaves, especially as it matures.
- Flavor: It offers a more robust, mustard-like flavor compared to watercress.
- Growing Conditions: Tolerant of drier soil than its aquatic cousin, watercress.
Common Names for Cress in the US: A Summary
It can be helpful to think of the term 'cress' in the US context as a family of plants rather than a single ingredient. The specific name used will depend on the habitat, appearance, and flavor of the variety in question.
- Watercress: The aquatic, mildest variety.
- Garden Cress: The annual, often sold as sprouts or microgreens.
- Peppergrass: The wild, forageable variety with a potent peppery flavor.
- Upland Cress: A hardier, land-growing alternative to watercress, sometimes called American cress.
Comparison Table of Cress Varieties
| Feature | Watercress | Garden Cress | Upland Cress | Peppergrass |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Nasturtium officinale | Lepidium sativum | Barbarea verna | Lepidium virginicum |
| Habitat | Aquatic/semi-aquatic | Terrestrial (garden, container) | Terrestrial (land-based) | Terrestrial (wild, fields) |
| Flavor Profile | Mild, peppery, delicate | Sharp, spicy, pungent | Strong, pungent, mustard-like | Peppery, tangy, like arugula |
| Common Use | Salads, sandwiches, soups | Microgreens, salads | Salads, cooked greens | Foraging, flavoring |
| Appearance | Small, round leaflets | Frilly or curled leaves | Jagged, serrated leaves | Lobed leaves, branched stems |
Conclusion
So, what is cress called in the US? The answer is not a single term but depends on the specific species. The most common variations are watercress, garden cress (often sold as sprouts), and peppergrass. By understanding the nuances between these peppery greens, you can better identify, grow, and cook with them. Watercress offers a delicate spice perfect for salads, while the more pungent garden cress and hardy upland cress provide a stronger kick. The wild peppergrass is a testament to the plant family's widespread presence across the continent. For more information on plant identification, consulting a local agricultural extension service can provide valuable insights into regional varieties.
How to Grow Cress
Growing cress is a straightforward process, regardless of the variety. For garden cress, you can sow seeds indoors on a damp paper towel or soil and harvest the sprouts in just a couple of weeks. Watercress, however, requires a more specific environment, needing moist or even submerged soil. Upland cress is more forgiving and can be grown in standard garden beds.
- Start with Seeds: Cress is very easy to grow from seed. For quick harvesting, sow seeds densely.
- Provide Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist. Watercress, in particular, must have a very wet environment.
- Harvest Early: Many cress types are best harvested when young for the best flavor and texture. Cut the greens with scissors, and they will often regrow for another harvest.
Common Culinary Uses of Cress
Beyond just salads, cress varieties are incredibly versatile. Their peppery flavor adds a zesty element to many dishes.
- Soups and Sauces: Add a handful of watercress to pureed vegetable soups or sauces for a fresh, peppery finish.
- Sandwiches: The classic watercress and egg sandwich is a staple, but any variety can add a welcome bite to your favorite sandwich.
- Garnishes: The fine leaves of garden cress make an excellent, flavorful garnish for a wide range of dishes.
- Cooked Greens: Like spinach, upland cress or mature watercress can be gently wilted and served as a side dish.
Medicinal Properties of Cress
Historically, cress has been valued for its health benefits. It is packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
- Rich in Nutrients: Cress is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.
- Antioxidant Properties: The phytonutrients in cress are believed to offer cancer-suppressing benefits.
- Immune Support: The high vitamin C content helps boost immune function.
For anyone looking for a fresh, nutritious green with a kick, the various forms of cress offer a wonderful culinary and health-enhancing option. Navigating the different names for cress in the US is simply a matter of identifying whether you're looking for an aquatic, garden, or wild variety. For further guidance on identifying and growing local edible plants, a trusted resource like your local agricultural extension website is invaluable.
