American Walnut (Black Walnut)
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Midwestern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable in heartwood sections; susceptible to insect attack in sapwood sections.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cut exhibiting a soft cathedral growth ring pattern near the top, transitioning into straight to slightly wavy grain with fine, closed-to-medium texture.
Color & Appearance
Pale brownish-tan to light grayish-olive tone, characteristic of unfinished sapwood or lighter heartwood/sapwood transition zones of black walnut. Lacks heavy finish, showing a subtle natural matte luster. Tends to golden brown with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable in heartwood sections; susceptible to insect attack in sapwood sections.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $14.00 per board foot depending on grade, thickness, and proportion of sapwood.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber sample (roughly 1 to 5 years since milling/kiln drying), freshly surfaced with smooth machine sanding and clean edges.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed; IUCN status Least Concern. Widely available from sustainably managed forests in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, woodturning, acoustic instruments, and decorative accents.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Midwestern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with hand and power tools. Planes smooth, glues securely, and takes stains or clear coats evenly.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to penetrating oils (tung oil, Danish oil, boiled linseed oil) to pop grain depth, or clear wiping varnish/polyurethane for durable surface protection.
Notable Features
Mild, pleasant faint nutty scent when worked. Fine pores give a smooth, refined tactile feel; moderate density balances strength and ease of handling.
