How to Grow and Care for Peppercresses

Whitetop (Lepidium draba) is a flowering plant species native to Eurasia. Whitetop is considered an invasive species in most regions. Whitetop grows rapidly through underground rhizomes.

Virginia pepperweed (Lepidium virginicum) is a plant species native to North America with the exclusion of certain parts of Canada. Every part of the virginia pepperweed plant is edible and has a peppery taste. This plant can be used as a substitute for black pepper.

Lesser swine-cress (Lepidium didymum) is an annual that grows to 41 cm long. It grows along the ground and has yellowish green leaves, which have a pungent odor. It is considered a weed and has an unpleasant smell. This plant is edible.

Field peppergrass (*Lepidium campestre*) is a member of the mustard family. It’s indigenous to southern Russia and is now found throughout North America. Field peppergrass is edible, and the seeds are used as a spice. Field peppergrass tastes like a pungent combination of black pepper and mustard.

Lepidium sativum is a fast-growing, edible herb that's referred to as the garden cress, distinguishing it from similar plants that are also called cress. It's genetically related to mustard and watercress, and it shares their peppery, tangy flavor. It's commercially grown in Europe.