Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Naturally straight but with frequent cathedral peaks in flat-sawn cuts, featuring open pores and occasional figured knots.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to chocolate brown with darker streaks; sapwood is pale yellow-gray. Patina tends to lighten to a golden brown over time and with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; however, susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, 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, width, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/reclaimed industrial stock (under 1 year) based on rough-sawn surface fibers and lack of significant oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout during planing if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive chocolatey scent when worked; contains juglone which may cause minor skin irritation or respiratory allergy in sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Oil finishes (Danish or Tung oil) are highly recommended to enhance natural figure; clear polyurethane or lacquer for added protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown color, open porous texture, and dark figure around the knot are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.