Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight but displaying prominent cathedral grain with subtle wavy figure and interlocking characteristics near knots; semi-ring-porous texture visible in the flat-sawn face.
Color Description
Medium to light brown heartwood with grayish undertones; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It typically develops a rich honey-brown patina over time with exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears recently surfaced but shows natural oxidation consistent with 1-3 years post-milling; tree age likely 50-80 years based on grain density.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though large knots can cause localized tearout during planing.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy odor when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; famous for its stability and strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Deepens beautifully with Danish oil or linseed oil; polyurethane or lacquer provides excellent protection for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic cathedral grain, chocolate-to-tan color transition, and pore structure are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.