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 on sapwood)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a prominent knot/burl figure and slight wave patterns visible near the knot structure.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to lighter grey-brown heartwood with visible darker striping; tends to lighten into a warmer, lighter brown patina with prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack on sapwood)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and presence of figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 5 to 20 years based on surface oxidation and dry milling marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available domestically from sustainably managed forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gun stocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, glues, and finishes very well, though prone to occasional tearout around irregular knot patterns.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well, highlighting the deep rich chatoyance.
Notable Features
Possesses a moderately coarse texture, natural luster, and stable dimensional properties after drying.
