Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable. Rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture, showing a flat-sawn/plain-sawn pattern.
Color & Appearance
Rich light brown to dark chocolate brown heartwood with occasional darker streaks, and a lighter yellowish-grey sapwood. Develops a rich patina and lightens slightly to a warm brown over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent milled lumber, estimated at 1 to 5 years old based on clean cut surfaces and light oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available, not CITES listed, sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though prone to occasional tearout on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, lacquer, polyurethane, and shellac extremely well, enhancing its deep rich color and grain.
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and has a mild, pleasant, characteristic odor when freshly cut. Excellent dimensional stability.
