Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray sapwood; exhibits good natural luster and ages to a lighter golden-brown over time when exposed to sunlight
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 5 to 15 years based on surface oxidation, machining marks, and overall condition
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested in North America
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, turns, and glues very well, holding details cleanly with minimal tearing
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well, enhancing the rich chatoyance and natural depth of the grain
Notable Features
Possesses a pleasant, mild distinctive scent when worked; moderate weight and excellent dimensional stability
