Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but can be irregular; features a medium texture with relatively large pores. Flat-sawn faces often show a distinct cathedral pattern.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light pale 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)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for select grade
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or kiln-dried blank; shows minimal oxidation or wear, likely under 1-2 years since processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can occasionally have surfacing tearout if grain is figured.
Notable Features
Faint, mild, spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant to some; excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping oils (like linseed or tung oil) and polyurethane are popular to enhance the dark color; clear lacquer or shellac also works well.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the chocolate-brown hue, diffuse porous structure, and typical grain swirl on the face are highly characteristic of North American Black Walnut.