Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or curly. Features a medium texture with relatively large, open pores appearing as dark streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light pale brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it typically lightens slightly and develops a golden patina.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 - $18.00 per board foot for Select & Better grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing, likely 5-20 years old based on the smooth surface preparation and contemporary finish application.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues easily, and takes stains and finishes very well. Can sometimes have irregular grain that causes tearout.
Notable Features
Faint, mild odor when being worked. Known for its unique dark color among temperate hardwoods and excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Usually finished with clear coats (oil-based polyurethane or lacquer) to highlight natural color; penetrating oils like Teak or Danish oil enhance the depth of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hue, diffuse-porous structure with visible vessel lines, and growth ring patterns are distinct to Black Walnut.