Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. The end grain shown displays distinct semi-ring-porous growth rings and small, sparse pores. Long grain can show decorative figure like crotch or curl near branch junctions.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Color tends to lighten/yellow over time with UV exposure, contrary to most woods that darken.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and width; turning blanks of this size are often sold for $15-$30.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible growth rings suggest this specific branch/small log section is approximately 15-20 years old; the rough, blocky bark indicates a moderately mature specimen.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available from managed forests.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues and finishes well. It is one of the most pleasant North American hardwoods to work with, though its dust can be a sensitizer.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'nutty' scent when worked. Contains juglone, a chemical that can be toxic to certain plants and may cause mild allergic reactions in woodworkers. High dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear penetrating oils (Linseed or Tung) or oil-based polyurethanes to enhance the deep brown tones. Avoid heavy staining which masks the natural figure.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood, contrasting light sapwood, distinct blocky bark texture, and semi-ring-porous end grain are diagnostic for Juglans nigra.