Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good resistance to heartwood decay and moderate resistance to insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray sapwood; has good natural luster and ages to a lighter golden-brown patina over time with UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good resistance to heartwood decay and moderate resistance to insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic kiln-dried lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated modern to moderately aged lumber, approximately 10 to 30 years old based on surface oxidation and dry milling marks
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List; widely available through domestic sustainably managed forests and private woodlots
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though can occasionally tear out on figured grain sections
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, varnish, and lacquer exceptionally well, enhancing the rich chatoyance and deep brown tones
Notable Features
Possesses a moderate natural luster, good dimensional stability, and a pleasant, mild natural scent when freshly cut
