Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. This sample shows a fine, relatively straight grain with subtle cathedral transitions on the right edge.
Color Description
Rich dark brown to chocolate brown heartwood with some lighter streaks. Sapwood is typically pale yellowish-grey to white. Darkens with age and finishing, though it can lighten significantly if exposed to intense UV light.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent rot resistance and moderate resistance to insects, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetle attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, musical instruments (guitars), interior trim, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America; primary growth in the Central and Midwestern United States.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on walnut grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern era; surface shows fresh saw marks and dust accumulation rather than deep patina, suggesting it is likely under 2-5 years old or recently processed.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable with widespread availability and responsible harvesting in the US.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally exhibit tearout in areas of figured grain. Produces a distinct, pleasant odor when cut.
Notable Features
Noted for its unique chocolatey scent. The dust can be a mild sensitizer for some users. Often treated with steam during commercial drying to darken sapwood to match heartwood.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oils (tung or linseed) and waxes to enhance depth. Polyurethane or lacquer provides a more durable protective layer for furniture while maintaining natural color.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic deep brown hue, fine pore structure visible in the diffuse-porous arrangement, and specific grain movement are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.