Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain in heartwood with a transition to the sapwood; shows typical flat-sawn cathedral patterns near the bottom edges and a medium, uniform texture.
Color Description
Heartwood is a rich, dark chocolate brown with occasional purplish or reddish streaks. Sapwood is distinct, pale yellowish-white to cream. Wood will lighten slightly and take on a golden hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable regarding decay resistance; heartwood is highly resistant to rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern transition of North America and the Midwestern United States.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh and kiln-dried; minimal oxidation or patina suggesting it was recently surfaced or planed.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes exceptionally well. Occasional tearout can occur in pieces with irregular grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, nut-like scent when being worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance the deep color; polyurethane or lacquer provide durability for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the sharp contrast between the creamy sapwood and deep chocolate heartwood, combined with the specific grain texture, is diagnostic for Black Walnut (Juglans nigra).