Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Typically straight but often irregular; can possess curly, wavy, or crotch figure in larger logs. End grain shows semi-ring-porous structure with distinct growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light grey-brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Wood darkens and develops a rich patina over time; may lighten if exposed to heavy sunlight.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $20.00 per board foot for high-quality kiln-dried lumber; logs vary based on diameter and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly felled logs (under 1 year) based on the presence of green leaves, intact bark, and minimal grey weathering on the cut faces.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification available.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally have irregular grain that causes tear-out. It holds paint and stain well, though usually left natural.
Notable Features
Faint, mild odor when being worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant to some people and is toxic to certain plants. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to penetrating oils (tung or linseed), clear lacquer, or polyurethane to enhance the natural dark tones and luster.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood, distinct pale sapwood, deeply furrowed bark, and leaf structure are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.