Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Semi-ring-porous to diffuse-porous with straight to slightly irregular grain. Moderate to coarse texture with occasional cathedral patterning on the face grain.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish-brown to deep chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. The visible end grain shows a distinct transition from creamy sapwood to rich brown heartwood.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable. Highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, flooring, and specialty wood objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on walnut grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be seasoned lumber with moderate oxidation; based on the checking and surface patina, it is likely 5-20 years post-harvest.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably in North America.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes cleanly, glues well, and takes a high polish. Known for minimal shrinkage after seasoning.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy odor when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant. Highly prized for its unique deep brown pigments.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are recommended to enhance deep colors. Polyurethane or lacquer provides excellent protection and depth.
Identification Confidence
High. The color contrast between the chocolate heartwood and pale sapwood, combined with the specific grain porosity visible in the end-cut, is highly diagnostic of Juglans nigra.