Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular; features a medium texture with relatively large pores. This sample exhibits straight grain with some slight movement.
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. This sample displays the characteristic chocolate heartwood color.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (less than 10 years); surface shows clean, sharp edges with minimal oxidation or patina, consistent with a contemporary lumber cut.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and glues well, and takes a high-quality finish. It can be susceptible to some tearout with figured pieces.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild, spicy odor when being worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oils (linseed, tung) which deepen the color, as well as clear lacquers and polyurethanes. Does not require staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the rich brown color combined with the specific pore structure and growth ring characteristics are classic markers of Juglans nigra.