Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. Known for cathedral patterns in flat-sawn boards and highly prized crotch or burl figure near branch junctions.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it develops a rich patina and can lighten slightly to a golden brown with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Central and Eastern United States and Southern Ontario).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for 4/4 select grade (varies heavily by figure and region).
Wood Age Estimate
The standing tree shown is approximately 40-60 years old based on DBH (diameter at breast height) and urban growth conditions.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and classified by IUCN as Least Concern. Widely available and generally sustainable, though slow-growing.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally exhibit tearout with irregular grain, but sands to a very high luster.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be toxic to certain plants and a mild allergen to some woodworkers. Excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Natural oils (Tung or Linseed) and waxes beautifully highlight the grain. Polyurethane or lacquer are recommended for durable surfaces like tables.
Identification Confidence
High; identification based on the tree's bark texture, branching architecture, terminal bud configuration, and the fallen branch exhibiting the classic dark heartwood/light sapwood contrast typical of Juglans nigra.