Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular, with open pores and slight cathedral figure visible on the turned surfaces; shows typical semi-ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Medium to dark chocolate brown heartwood with a cooler, grayish undertone typical of Walnut; sapwood is pale cream, though mostly obscured by a dark stain or finish. It typically lightens with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (Powderpost beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for standard 4/4 select grade.
Wood Age Estimate
30-60 years based on the furniture style (pedestal table base), patina of the finish, and accumulation of dust and surface micro-scratches.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout if the grain is figured.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; prized for its dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance depth, or a clear lacquer/polyurethane for protection. If refinishing, surface must be wiped to remove old oils.
Identification Confidence
High; the open pore structure, characteristic dark chocolate brown color visible through the worn finish, and the application in a traditional turned pedestal base are hallmarks of Black Walnut.