Watercresses (Nasturtium officinale) are fast-growing, aquatic or semi-aquatic, perennial plants native from Europe to central Asia, and one of the oldest known leaf vegetables consumed by human beings. These plants are members of the Family Brassicaceae or cabbage family, botanically related to garden cress, mustard and radish ? all noteworthy for a peppery, tangy flavour. Watercress is very rich in vitamins and minerals, and has long been valued as a food and medicinal plant. It contains significant amounts of iron, calcium and folic acid, in addition to vitamins A and C.