Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly irregular or wavy grain with a medium texture
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks, occasionally with a purple or reddish cast. Sapwood is nearly white to yellowish-gray.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn lumber stock showing moderate oxidation typical of freshly or semi-recently milled air-dried lumber (approx. 1 to 3 years old).
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally sustainable and widely available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, turning, and specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; easy to hand and machine tool, glues, stains, and finishes well, though can occasionally tear out on irregular grain.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well to highlight the deep rich brown tones.
Notable Features
Possesses a moderate natural luster, distinct rich dark color prized by woodworkers, and stable dimensional properties.
