Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with very good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a generally uniform texture and a subtle cathedral pattern on the face.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to lighter pale brown or grayish-brown in the sapwood, exhibiting a moderate natural luster that tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with very good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 30 to 60 years old based on the appearance of the finished furniture panel and oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered a species of least concern by the IUCN, widely available from sustainably managed domestic forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and specialty woodturning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though care must be taken to avoid tearout on figured sections.
Finish Recommendations
Takes finishes exceptionally well, including traditional oil finishes, lacquers, varnishes, and polyurethane to highlight the deep grain.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich chocolate-brown color, excellent dimensional stability, and shock resistance.
