Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain, but can be irregular or cathedral-like in flat-sawn sections; the image shows a relatively fine, straight to slightly wavy texture with some darker streaks typical of growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish brown to a deep chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. The sample shows a rich, dark luster that often lightens slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior paneling, gunstocks, turned objects, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width, length, and figure quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate from image; the lack of significant checking or patina suggests modern milling (within 5-20 years) or a well-maintained finished surface.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally produce tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and good shock resistance. Nut hulls can be toxic to some plants and animals.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural depth and color; polyurethane or lacquer provides durable protection. A clear topcoat is usually preferred over stains to showcase the natural wood color.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the visible grain, rich chocolate-brown tones, and pore structure are highly characteristic of Black Walnut, though high-quality staining on species like Alder or Cherry can sometimes mimic this appearance.