Black Walnut (American Walnut)
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, primarily across the central and eastern United States.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable; heartwood shows strong natural resistance to rot and fungal decay, though sapwood remains susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly irregular grain with subtle wavy figure present near the sapwood transition, displaying classic flat-sawn cathedral patterns across the face.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light golden brown to rich chocolate brown with dark brown streaks. Bright creamy white sapwood is distinctly demarked along the outer live-edge region. May lighten slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; heartwood shows strong natural resistance to rot and fungal decay, though sapwood remains susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for high-grade 4/4 or 8/8 rough-sawn lumber; wider live-edge slabs often fetch a premium.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn lumber sample from a freshly processed or stored slab, likely harvested within the past 1-5 years based on minimal surface oxidation and visible mill marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Not listed under CITES appendices. Widely available from sustainably managed forests throughout North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, high-end cabinetry, live-edge slabs, gunstocks, architectural millwork, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, and specialty woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, primarily across the central and eastern United States.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and power tools. Planes smooth, glues very well, sands easily, and holds nails or screws securely.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes extremely well. Penetrating oils (tung oil, Danish oil) enhance natural grain depth and chatoyance; clear lacquers or polyurethane provide durable protection without obscuring color.
Notable Features
Mild, pleasant nut-like aroma when worked. Dust can occasionally cause minor respiratory irritation or mild allergic skin reactions.
