Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral figure with slightly open, straight to irregular grain. Fine to medium texture with natural movement in the growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellowish-gray (visible on the left edge). It has a moderate natural luster and tends to lighten or develop a golden-brown patina with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern stock (likely harvested within the last 5-10 years) based on the clean machine-milled surface and lack of significant oxidation or deep patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable, though high demand keeps prices elevated.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, and specialty turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues easily, and takes finishes extremely well. It has a mild, pleasant odor when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (like Linseed or Tung oil) to enhance the grain, or clear polyurethane/lacquer to preserve the deep brown tones.
Notable Features
Distinctive chocolate color and sweet, nutty scent when freshly cut. It is relatively lightweight for a hardwood but very dimensionally stable once dried.
