Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with visible cathedral patterns and irregular dark streaks; semi-porous texture with a medium-coarse grain.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a deep chocolate brown to a light coffee brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-gray. It tends to lighten and take on a more golden-brown hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade (FAS), and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The rough-sawn surface and oxidation indicate the piece is likely between 1 and 5 years post-milling, appearing as reasonably fresh secondary shop lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can be prone to tearout in areas of figured grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, nut-like scent when being worked; contain juglone which can be a mild irritant; known for excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (tung or boiled linseed) to pop the grain, followed by lacquer or shellac. Polyurethane is recommended for high-wear areas like flooring or tables.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown color, pore structure, and contrast between heartwood and the sliver of sapwood are primary indicators of American Black Walnut.