Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable (good decay resistance and resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to some insect attacks)
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to slightly irregular grain with subtle cathedral patterning and fine uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to lighter greyish-brown heartwood with some lighter contrasting streaks; medium natural luster. Tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (good decay resistance and resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to some insect attacks)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00+ per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 1 to 5 years old based on clean, freshly finished workshop condition and minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and specialty woodturning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; planes, saws, glues, and finishes very well, though occasional grain reversal can cause minor tearout during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes (such as Danish oil or teak oil), lacquer, and water-based polyurethane exceptionally well, enhancing its rich natural chatoyancy.
Notable Features
Possesses a mild, pleasant natural odor when freshly worked; excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
