Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable (good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a uniform, medium texture and some subtle flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible toward the center.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to grayish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood, showing moderate luster and darkening slightly to a warmer patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively freshly milled or recently surfaced lumber, estimated at less than 5 years old based on minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainably harvested from domestic forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, carving, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well, highlighting the deep rich tones of the grain.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich, natural dark chocolate color, stability, and excellent shock resistance.
