Black Walnut (likely alternative: Cherry or Teak)
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to wavy grain with live-edge natural curvature, showing knots, cathedral patterns, and minor grain character near crotch/knot inclusions.
Color & Appearance
Warm golden-brown to rich chocolate brown heartwood with pale yellowish-white sapwood along the live edges; dulls slightly to a warmer brown with age and air exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for wide live-edge slabs
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently harvested/milled raw slab (estimated 1-3 years since cutting), rough-sawn with freshly marked layout pencil lines.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed; IUCN status Least Concern; widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Live-edge slab tables, custom fine furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, veneer, and accent woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and power tools. Glues, stains, and finishes extremely well, though figure around knots may cause minor tearout during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Hardwax oils (like Rubio Monocoat or Osmo) to highlight grain naturally, or wipe-on polyurethane / clear epoxy fills for live-edge tabletop stability.
Notable Features
Distinctive live edge with pale sapwood margin, smooth texture, moderate weight, and mild pleasant odor when freshly cut.
