Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but can be irregular; shows moderate, open pores and occasional wavy or curly figure; flat-sawn appearance in this sample with some cathedral peaking visible.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Grayish-yellow sapwood is not strongly visible here. Tends to lighten and become more golden-brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Medium age (10-30 years); exhibits significant surface oxidation, fine checking/cracking, and accumulated surface patina indicating an older processed piece rather than fresh lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable but slow-growing.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and glues well and holds stains/finishes excellently. Occasional tearout can occur in pieces with irregular grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, nut-like scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant to some users; prized for its dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to penetrating oils (Linseed or Tung) to enhance depth, or polyurethane/lacquer for increased protection. Avoid heavy stains to preserve natural color.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate hues, characteristic pore structure, and specific oxidation patterns are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.