Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern United States and Central North America.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be irregular; features subtle cathedral patterns and some wavy figure. Sample appears to be flat-sawn or rotary-peeled based on the wide grain arcs.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is typically pale yellow-gray to nearly white. This sample shows a warm, medium-brown tone with a low-to-medium luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot for 4/4 select grade, though prices vary significantly by region and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern or moderately aged (approx. 10-30 years) based on the oxidation level and lack of deep surface distressing.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered sustainable and widely available.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Central North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, holds details well, glues and finishes easily, though it has a faint, characteristic odor during working.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (like Danish oil) or clear lacquers to highlight natural depth. Avoid heavy stains that mask the characteristic grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked. It is one of the few woods that tends to lighten over time with UV exposure, unlike many woods that darken.
