SoCal Home Gardening

Comparison of With Other Varieties

Cress is a cool-season vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is known for its distinctive sharp and slightly peppery flavor, making it a popular choice in salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Within the cress variety, one unique cultivar stands out - the winking eye cress.

Winking eye cress, scientifically known as Lepidium sativum, is a cultivar that offers a few differences compared to other cress varieties. Firstly, it is named for its intriguing appearance. The leaves of the winking eye cress are folded inward, resembling closed eyes with a small opening at the center. This distinct feature gives it a quirky and playful aesthetic, making it an interesting addition to culinary presentations.

In terms of taste, winking eye cress is similar to other cress varieties; it has a zesty, peppery flavor that enhances the overall taste of dishes. The difference lies mainly in its appearance and the novelty it brings to the plate. While the flavor itself may not differ significantly from other cress cultivars, the visual appeal and unique presentation make winking eye cress an attractive choice for adding a whimsical touch to meals.

As for the history of winking eye cress, it is a relatively new cultivar that was bred specifically for its eye-catching appearance. Breeders selectively crossed different cress varieties until they achieved the desired eye shape. This cultivar is still fairly uncommon and may not be as widely available as other cress varieties, which adds to its exclusivity and charm.

If you're interested in growing winking eye cress in your garden, it may be a bit more challenging to find seeds or young plants compared to more typical cress varieties. However, you can search for specialized garden centers or online seed suppliers that offer unique and rare vegetable varieties. It's always a good idea to check with local nurseries or horticultural societies as they may have information or recommendations on where to find winking eye cress.

Another option is to explore seed exchanges or online gardening communities, where fellow gardeners may be willing to share or trade rare cultivars like winking eye cress. Building connections within the gardening community can often lead to exciting opportunities to get your hands on unique and interesting plants.

Ultimately, the winking eye cress variety offers gardeners an opportunity to add a fun and visually appealing element to their culinary creations. While its taste may not differ significantly from other cress varieties, its unique appearance makes it a talking point in the garden and at the dining table.