Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable against decay and moderately resistant to insect attacks
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-black heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray sapwood, often finished or stained to a dark uniform tone in contemporary furniture
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable against decay and moderately resistant to insect attacks
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot for standard kiln-dried lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be modern or recently manufactured furniture (less than 10 years old)
- Sustainability Status
- Generally abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and specialty items
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools, glues and finishes well, holds details cleanly
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well; hand-rubbed oil or water-based polyurethane work wonderfully to highlight the grain
Notable Features
Prized for its rich dark color, dimensional stability, and shock resistance
