Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable. Rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture, flat-sawn appearance on the face showing distinct growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks; sapwood is clearly demarcated, creamy white to yellowish-gray. Luster is moderate, and the heartwood tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $15.00+ per board foot depending on grade, width, and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (several decades old based on surface oxidation and patina).
- Sustainability Status
- Generally sustainable, widely available through domestic timber harvesting, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and specialty woodcrafts.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though can occasionally tear out during planing if grain is irregular.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oils, polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac. Hand-rubbed oil finishes particularly enhance the deep chatoyance of the grain.
Notable Features
Possesses a rich, dark brown color naturally without needing heavy staining. Contains moderate natural oils and moderate dimensional stability.
