Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable (Good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a coarse texture and characteristic live-edge slab appearance showing growth rings and knots.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to chocolate heartwood with occasional purplish or dark streaks, contrasted by a lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (Good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on width, grade, and live-edge characteristics
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or air-dried rough-sawn lumber, approximately 1-5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely distributed and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though can occasionally tear out on interlocked grain.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well to highlight its deep rich tones.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich chocolate color, shock resistance, and stability. Contains natural oils.
