Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium-coarse texture and occasional subtle wave or figure.
Color & Appearance
Rich brown to dark chocolate brown heartwood with occasional purplish or dark streaks. The sapwood is a contrasting pale yellowish-gray to white. Luster is medium.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh-cut to moderately aged lumber sample (under 5 years), showing minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available and sustainably managed in North America, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability. It cuts, glues, sands, and finishes very well, though prone to occasional tearout on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, varnish, and lacquer exceptionally well, bringing out deep chatoyancy in the grain.
Notable Features
Stable dimensionally, shock resistant, moderate weight, and pleasant mild scent when freshly worked.
