American Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular, flat-sawn with a small knot; shows typical wide open pores and subtle wavy figure.
Color Description
Distinct transition between pale yellowish-white sapwood and creamy chocolate-brown heartwood. Heartwood will lighten and sapwood will yellow with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable (Heartwood); sapwood is susceptible to insect attack and rot.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 – $15.00 per board foot for Select/Better grade (unsteamed).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/Recent; lack of deep patina or UV oxidation suggests the sample was recently cut or surfaced.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though large knots can cause localized tearout.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; recognized for exceptional dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance natural color; clear polyurethane or lacquer for protection; avoid heavy stains to let the natural contrast shine.
Identification Confidence
High; the sharp contrast between the creamy sapwood and the specific chocolate-brown heartwood, combined with the medium-textured open grain and characteristic knot, is diagnostic of Juglans nigra.