Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. Visible crotch and cathedral patterns common in flat-sawn logs. Texture is medium to coarse.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to white. High luster. Darkens and gains a rich patina with age, though unfinished wood may bleach under heavy UV.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, flooring, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $15.00 per board foot (depending on width and figuring)
Wood Age Estimate
The log appears to have been fallen for 1-3 years based on the patchy bark loss and the light weathering/graying of the exposed sapwood surface.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well. Holds screws and nails well, though pre-drilling is recommended.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy odor when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen and is toxic to certain plants. Known for its shock resistance and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil, Danish oil) are best to enhance color and chatoyance. Lacquer or polyurethane for protective furniture coatings.
Identification Confidence
Medium. Identified based on the deeply furrowed bark visible in the lower right, the pale cream-colored sapwood exposed where bark is missing, and the characteristic growth habit/branching seen in the surrounding landscape.