Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular with a cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn face, showing subtle wavy figures
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a contrasting pale yellowish-grey sapwood, exhibiting medium natural luster and deepening in patina over time with light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10 to 25 dollars per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned lumber, roughly 5 to 15 years old based on surface oxidation and patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN, readily available from sustainable domestic forests and managed woodlots
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though care must be taken to prevent tearout on figured sections
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, lacquer, polyurethane, and shellac extremely well, highlighting the rich chatoyance and grain depth without requiring heavy prep
Notable Features
Possesses a pleasant mild scent when freshly cut, medium weight, excellent dimensional stability, and moderate natural oils
