Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf - Medium
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable. Exhibits good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack, though vulnerable to powderpost beetles.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture. The end grain clearly shows ring-porous structure characteristic of many temperate hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-grey to whitish sapwood. The color tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with prolonged UV light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf - Medium
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable. Exhibits good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack, though vulnerable to powderpost beetles.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log, approximately 40 to 60 years based on ring count visibility and size.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status according to the IUCN. Not listed on CITES appendices. Widely available from sustainably managed North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning projects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, varnish, and lacquer very well. Hand-rubbed oil finishes particularly enhance the deep chatoyance and rich color of the wood.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich chocolate-brown color, shock resistance, and stability. Contains natural oils but generally poses minimal finishing challenges.
