Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. Shows a cathedral pattern on the face grain and semi-porous end grain texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light grey-brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Often develops a rich patina and lightens slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade (FAS).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to recently seasoned (less than 1-2 years) based on the rough end-cut fibers and lack of deep surface oxidation or grime.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues, and finishes easily, though it has a distinct odor when being worked.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (like Danish or Tung oil) to highlight grain, or clear polyurethane/lacquer for protection. No wood conditioner required.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood, distinct creamy sapwood, and pore structure on the end grain are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.