Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a moderate natural luster, showing a subtle flat-sawn cathedral pattern.
Color & Appearance
Rich light brown to dark chocolate brown heartwood with occasional darker streaks, contrasting sharply with a pale yellowish-gray to white sapwood.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned, roughly 5 to 15 years old based on surface oxidation and appearance.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though care must be taken with planing to avoid tearout on irregular grain.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oil, polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac. Oil finishes enhance the rich natural chocolate tones.
Notable Features
Possesses a moderate natural luster, stable dimensional properties once dried, and works exceptionally well for carving and shaping.
