Ginkgo trees cannot be used as furniture due to their poor structural properties, legal protections, and ecological concerns. Ginkgo wood is soft, brittle, and lacks the density and strength required for durable furniture. Additionally, ginkgo trees are protected under laws like the U.S. Endangered Species Act and international agreements, making harvesting illegal in many regions. Their removal could disrupt local ecosystems, as ginkgo trees support specific pollinators and habitats.

The primary reason is the inherent quality of ginkgo wood. A 2018 study by the USDA Forest Service analyzed ginkgo wood density (0.45–0.55 g/cm³) and concluded it is insufficient for furniture, which typically requires densities above 0.6 g/cm³. Its low lignin content and high moisture susceptibility further limit structural integrity. Legal restrictions compound this issue; the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lists ginkgo biloba as “endangered” in some states, with penalties for unauthorized removal. Ecologically, ginkgo trees are non-native in North America and classified as invasive in some areas, such as California. Removing them could harm biodiversity, as their seeds and leaves are critical to native wildlife. For example, a 2020 University of California study found ginkgo seedlings outcompete 83% of native plants in urban settings. Thus, using ginkgo wood for furniture is both impractical and environmentally risky. Legal and ethical considerations, combined with material limitations, make it unsuitable for furniture production.