Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, though sometimes irregular; displays a medium texture with relatively large pores. This sample is a small round branch showing juvenile wood properties.
Color Description
Bark is dark grey-brown with rough ridges. Heartwood (internal) is typically chocolate brown, while sapwood is pale yellow-grey. Darkens slightly with age though heartwood may lighten if exposed to heavy UV.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, veneer, flooring, and small woodturning projects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for kiln-dried lumber; as a raw branch/firewood, value is negligible.
Wood Age Estimate
2-4 years; based on the diameter of the branch and the development of the bark lenticels and texture.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well, though dust can be an irritant.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when cut. Contains juglone, which can be toxic to certain plants and horses. Known for excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (tung or linseed) or clear polyurethane to highlight the naturally deep color.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the bark texture, color tone, and typical North American residential setting strongly suggest Black Walnut or a closely related Juglans species.