Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable. Good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and subtle cathedral pattern on flat-sawn boards.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood. Displays good natural luster and tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5-15 years based on the finished furniture surface condition and light wear marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, lacquer, polyurethane, and shellac wonderfully, highlighting the rich natural depth of the grain.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich, natural dark color, excellent dimensional stability, and shock resistance.
