Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. This sample shows subtle wavy figure and cathedral patterns in the flat-sawn face, with some small knots or 'pith' inclusions characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it typically lightens in color to a golden brown with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very 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 United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced. The sharp edges and lack of deep oxidation suggest a newer cut, likely less than 5 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though irregular grain can occasionally cause tearout during planing if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; prized for its dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (like Tung or Linseed) or wiping varnishes nicely highlight the chatoyance; polyurethane or lacquer provide excellent protection for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High. The coffee-brown color palette, specific grain movement, and the presence of localized darker mineral streaks are hallmarks of Juglans nigra.