Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. Common figures include cathedral patterns in flat-sawn boards, with occasional burl, crotch, and curly figure possible.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Color tends to lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though 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
Approximately $12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; the smooth, high-gloss finish suggests a contemporary piece of furniture with 5-15 years of oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can occasionally have surfacing tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy odor when being worked. High natural luster and faint chocolate-like scent.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) or clear polyurethanes are recommended to highlight the deep natural chocolate tones.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the rich dark brown color and subtle grain visible through a high-gloss finish are hallmarks of Black Walnut, though dark stains on Oak or Maple are possible alternatives.