Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Northern Red Oak or another mature street hardwood. — Juglans nigra

Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Northern Red Oak or another mature street hardwood.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood (deciduous), domestic North American species.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous), domestic North American species.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.
Durability
Moderately durable heartwood, with reasonable decay resistance but not a premier exterior-weathering wood; sapwood is less resistant.

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Grain Pattern

Not reliably visible because the sample is standing bark; mature walnut typically has straight to slightly irregular grain, with occasional curl or crotch figure.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is commonly chocolate brown to purplish brown, darkening with age; sapwood is pale gray-brown. Bark is dark gray and deeply furrowed, consistent with walnut but not diagnostic.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable heartwood, with reasonable decay resistance but not a premier exterior-weathering wood; sapwood is less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $8–$20 per board foot for sound kiln-dried walnut; exceptional figured stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Tree age cannot be determined accurately from a photograph; apparent maturity suggests several decades, perhaps roughly 40–80 years.

Common Uses

Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, carving, and turned work.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though irregular grain can tear out and silica or mineral streaks may dull tools.

Finish Recommendations

Use a clear oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; sanding to 180–220 grit and sealing sapwood/heartwood evenly helps produce a uniform appearance.

Notable Features

Dark heartwood, attractive natural luster, moderate dimensional stability, and occasional prized figure; bark identification is not conclusive.

Learn more about Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Northern Red Oak or another mature street hardwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 22, 2026