Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain in the majority of the log with potential for cathedral patterns in flat-sawn sections; fine to medium texture with naturally high luster.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is a pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Wood tends to lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut log; bark texture and diameter suggest a tree between 30-50 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues, stains, and finishes easily. High dimensional stability.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone which can be an allergen for some. Known for exceptional shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance richness; clear polyurethane or lacquer for protection without significantly altering the natural dark tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic dark heartwood offset by thin white sapwood and the specific rough, furrowed bark pattern are diagnostic for Juglans nigra.