Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular with cathedral figure and slight wavy texture near a knot; open-pored texture
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light mocha brown to dark chocolate brown with purplish-grey undertones. Sapwood is pale yellow-grey to off-white; wood tends to lighten and become golden with age and UV exposure
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and moderately resistant to insect attack, though sapwood is susceptible
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior paneling, gunstocks, turned objects, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central United States and Southern Canada
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and surfaced within the last 1-2 years based on the clean milling and fresh coloration
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; IUCN status of Least Concern. Widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common
Workability
Excellent with hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues, stains, and finishes beautifully, though the open pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish. Can produce almond-like scent when cut
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet odor when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant. High shock resistance and dimensional stability
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or drying oils (Tung/Linseed) to enhance natural figure, or lacquer for a classic professional look. Clear polyurethane is recommended for high-wear surfaces
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate-brown color, distinct semi-ring-porous grain, and the specific transition to sapwood are characteristic of domestic Black Walnut