Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with cathedral figures and two visible knots. The sample exhibits flat-sawn characteristics with a medium, semi-open texture and occasional wavy or irregular patterns near the knot inclusions.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium grayish-brown with darker streaks; the sapwood is a distinct creamy white to pale yellow. Over time, the heartwood usually lightens to a more golden-brown, unlike many other woods which darken.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, and specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, primarily the United States and Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young or freshly milled; the high contrast between the pale sapwood and heartwood suggests a kiln-dried board that has not yet undergone significant UV-induced darkening or patina development.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification often available.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues and finishes well, and holds nails and screws securely. Knots can occasionally cause directional grain tearout if not approached carefully.
Notable Features
Features a faint, pleasant, mild scent when being worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. The dust can be a mild sensitizer for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (like Linseed or Tung oil) to highlight the grain, or clear polyurethane to protect the color contrast. A dark stain is generally avoided to preserve the natural walnut aesthetics.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct transition between the chocolate-brown heartwood and creamy white sapwood, combined with the specific pore structure and knot appearance, is characteristic of North American Black Walnut.