Black Walnut (specifically showing sharp heartwood-sapwood contrast and curly figure)
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable (rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with prominent curly/fiddleback figure visible in the lighter sapwood section, and a flat-sawn appearance.
Color & Appearance
Distinct contrast between the rich dark chocolate brown heartwood and the pale yellowish-white sapwood. Moderate natural luster with noticeable chatoyance in the figured areas; heartwood tends to lighten slightly to a lighter brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00+ USD per board foot, higher due to the presence of figure (curly/fiddleback).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated freshly milled to a few years old based on clean edges and minimal surface weathering.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available in North America, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, turning, carving, and specialty veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well. May experience some tear-out on figured areas during planing if not done carefully.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes (like Danish oil or tung oil), lacquers, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Water-based finishes can highlight the chatoyance without overly ambering the light sapwood.
Notable Features
Possesses a pleasant mild odor when freshly cut, excellent dimensional stability, and striking natural color contrast between sapwood and heartwood.
