Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces; exhibits occasional waves and irregularities near knots as seen in this sample.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a creamy to dark brown (currently appearing weathered/grayish in this raw state); sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It darkens and develops a rich patina with oil but can lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable and very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled or reclaimed; the surface shows oxidation and dirt consistent with outdoor storage (estimated 1-5 years post-milling).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well, although it can occasionally exhibit tearout if the grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen for some. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Best finished with penetrating oils (like linseed or tung oil) to bring out the depth of the grain, or a clear polyurethane for durability.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive cathedral grain, color transition between sap and heartwood, and coarse texture are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.