Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular with occasional wavy figure and cathedral patterns in flat-sawn sections; slight medium texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from medium to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray and typically removed or steamed to match. Color tends to lighten and shift toward golden brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on width, figure, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Contemporary cut (likely 1-5 years post-processing) based on the flat sheen and lack of deep oxidation or mechanical wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent with hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can exhibit tearout in areas of irregular grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. High tannin content. Renowned for its unique cool brown tones compared to other hardwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance natural color; polyurethane for durability; shellac for a traditional luster.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The dark chocolate hue, medium-pore texture, and specific cathedral grain shown are classic indicators of Black Walnut, though high-quality staining on maple or cherry can occasionally mimic this look.