Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable (Good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium texture and open pores visible on the face grain.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to grayish-brown heartwood with paler yellowish-grey sapwood, showing moderate luster and darkening slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (Good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, approximately 1-5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though open pores may require grain filler for a smooth gloss finish.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, lacquer, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Water-based or oil-based finishes enhance the rich natural dark brown tones.
Notable Features
Stable dimensionally, shock resistant, moderate weight, and possesses a pleasant, mild earthy scent when worked.
