Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces; shows irregular/wavy grain around small knots and natural defects.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish-brown to deep chocolate brown. Sapwood is yellowish-white. This sample shows typical light-tan to medium-brown oxidation from UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable or Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, paneling, flooring, and specialty wooden objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade (FAS).
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 2-5 years as a processed board; displays surface oxidation, rough-milled saw marks, and minor surface checking consistent with air-dried lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent with hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally produce tearout in areas of irregular grain; produces a distinct, agreeable scent when worked.
Notable Features
Distinctive chocolate-like scent when freshly cut. Contains juglone (can be an allergen). High tannin content makes it suitable for iron-staining (ebonizing).
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wiping varnishes (tung oil, Danish oil) are best to highlight depth; darkens beautifully with shellac or lacquer.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The diffuse-porous structure, color range, and specific cathedral grain pattern are classic indicators of Juglans nigra, though light-colored variations can mimic Butternut or English Walnut.