Henrik Sjöman

Henrik Sjöman is a senior researcher at Gotheburg Botanical Garden, Swedish University of Agricultural Science and Royal Botanic Garden Kew. His work is mainly focusing on developing knowledge of site adapted plant use for urban environments including private gardens as well as public parks. His research work involves understanding how the performance of different trees will work in the context of their environment, along with how trees will deliver within the ecosystem. His hope is that we can utilise his studies to extend our knowledge and diversify our treescapes to suit the changing climate.

Describe your approach to teaching
My approach in teaching is to develop a language we can use for sustainable plant use with clear guidance on what makes some plants better than others, why they are a better option and how they do to be better. Through these 'what, how and why' we can achieve greater accuracy in choosing the right plant for place and function

What inspires your own work?
I am inspired by seeing unique plant environments with materials that can give a place its unique character and which, despite sometimes challenging conditions, provides a lushness and an experience that benefits people as well as insects, butterflies or birds.