Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to somewhat irregular; grain is usually open and coarse, but can exhibit figure such as crotch or curl
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it moves from dark brown to a more golden tint.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, and small turned objects
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10 to $18 per board foot depending on width and figure
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated at 20-40 years based on the oxidation of the finish, surface scratches, and wear on the curved edges
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well except for occasional tearout with figured grain
Notable Features
Distinctive mild odor when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant to some; excellent dimensional stability once dried
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to pop the grain, followed by lacquer or polyurethane for protection
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the dark chocolate brown color, coarse open grain texture, and specific wear patterns are classic indicators of Juglans nigra