Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable (excellent decay resistance and good resistance to rot and insect attack)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture, showing some plain-sawn cathedral patterns on the surface.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to grayish-brown heartwood with a lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood; deepens in richness over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (excellent decay resistance and good resistance to rot and insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned, roughly 5 to 15 years old based on the surface oxidation and rough-sawn board condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available from domestic sustainably managed forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, carving, and specialty woodturning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; glues, stains, and finishes well, though occasional grain tearout can occur on figured pieces during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, varnish, and lacquer exceptionally well, enhancing the deep chatoyance of the rich brown color.
Notable Features
Possesses a rich natural color without staining, excellent dimensional stability, and moderate shock resistance.
