Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable to very durable regarding decay resistance, with good resistance to heartwood decay but susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly irregular or wavy grain with a medium-coarse texture.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood, sometimes with darker streaks. Pale yellowish-gray to lighter brown sapwood. Exhibits a natural moderate luster and deepens to a rich amber-brown patina with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable to very durable regarding decay resistance, with good resistance to heartwood decay but susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00+ per board foot depending on grade, width, and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern, likely harvested and milled within the last 1 to 5 years based on the clean surface finish and lack of heavy historical oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List as threatened. Widely available domestically and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, carving, turning, and decorative interior accents.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though care must be taken to avoid tearout on figured sections.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oils (Danish oil, tung oil), varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethane. Oil finishes particularly enhance the deep chatoyance and rich color of walnut.
Notable Features
Features distinct dark coloration, stability when dry, and pleasant working aroma. Contains juglone, which can act as a natural toxin to certain plants but is safe in finished wood.
