Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular with medium texture; some curly figure or cathedral patterns are visible depending on the cut angle.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. It tends to lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/planed; the lack of deep patina and the sharpness of the grain suggest recent processing from dried stock.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent; generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant for some woodworkers. Known for its stability and structural strength.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural darkness. Polyurethane or lacquer provides a durable protective coat. Water-based finishes may leave it looking 'cold.'
Identification Confidence
High; the chocolate-brown hue, medium-porous grain structure, and characteristic sapwood transition are hallmarks of North American Black Walnut.