Larissa Smith
Author for A-Z Animals

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Larissa Smith is a writer for A-Z Animals with years of experience in plant care and wildlife. After years spent in the South African bush while studying Nature Conservation, she found her way to writing about animals and plants in her work. She hopes to inspire others to appreciate and care for the precious world around them.
Larissa lives in Florida with her two sons, a miniature golden retriever named Pupples, and a colorful succulent garden. In her spare time, she is tending to her garden, adventuring with her kids, and hosting “Real Housewives” watch parties with her friends.

Wasabi vs. Horseradish

Wasabi vs. Horseradish Picture

When it comes to spicy, flavorful foods, wasabi and horseradish are two of the most well-known and loved condiments. However, many people think wasabi and horseradish are one and the… Read More

By Larissa Smith 1 year ago

Lemon Balm vs. Bee Balm

Lemon Balm vs. Bee Balm Picture

Lemon balm and bee balm are herbs that give our foods delicious bursts of flavor. Though they are both used in cooking, lemon balm and bee balm are distinctively different… Read More

By Larissa Smith 1 year ago

Larch vs. Tamarack

Larch vs. Tamarack Picture

Enjoy the shade of a majestic tree this summer! Tamaracks are a wonderful option for your property. From young to old, the colors of larch and tamarack will dazzle you… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Flor de Maga vs. Hibiscus

Flor de Maga vs. Hibiscus Picture

Can you tell the difference between flor de maga vs. hibiscus? Not many can at first glance. The first thing to note is that both flor de maga and hibiscus… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Queen Anne’s Lace vs. Baby’s Breath: What’s the Difference?

Queen Anne’s Lace vs. Baby’s Breath: What’s the Difference? Picture

Are you wondering whether or not you should use Queen Anne's lace or baby's breath? Both plants have become increasingly popular over the years as these flowers lend a look… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Loblolly vs. Longleaf Pine: What’s the Difference?

Loblolly vs. Longleaf Pine: What’s the Difference? Picture

Longleaf pines are an underutilized and often overlooked species of pine. However, they have a variety of qualities that make them well-suited for many environments. Both loblolly and longleaf pine… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Beefsteak Tomato vs. Heirloom

Beefsteak Tomato vs. Heirloom Picture

Heirloom tomatoes are the best. We know, we know: you can't just say something like that and leave it at that. You've got questions. You want to know why we… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Old Wood vs. New Wood Hydrangea: What’s the Difference?

Old Wood vs. New Wood Hydrangea: What’s the Difference? Picture

The hydrangea plant has been around since ancient times. There are over 75 species of hydrangeas and hundreds of varieties, but the most common ones are the old and new… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Porcupine Grass vs. Zebra Grass

Porcupine Grass vs. Zebra Grass Picture

Should you use porcupine grass or zebra grass to give your garden a more elegant and poised look? It's not hard to see why these two types of grass have… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Ficus Audrey vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig: What’s the Difference?

Ficus Audrey vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig: What’s the Difference? Picture

So, you're thinking about getting a ficus. They've been popular for years, and it's easy to see why: they're beautiful and grow well in different environments. But which one should… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Poblano Pepper vs. Jalapeno: What’s the Difference?

Poblano Pepper vs. Jalapeno: What’s the Difference? Picture

Jalapenos are a staple in many kitchens. They're versatile, pretty easy to grow yourself, and have a great flavor that pairs well with just about anything (including chocolate). But there's… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Spanish Bluebells vs. English Bluebells: What’s the Difference?

Spanish Bluebells vs. English Bluebells: What’s the Difference? Picture

Spanish bluebells are a great choice for your garden. They're easy to grow, and they provide an amazing show of color. They are a little more delicate than English bluebells… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago

Kale vs. Lettuce: What Are Their Differences?

Kale vs. Lettuce: What Are Their Differences? Picture

Kale and lettuce are foods we all know are good for us, but we don't always make an effort to eat them. So it's time to give lettuce and kale… Read More

By Larissa Smith 2 years ago