Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. Known for cathedral patterns in flat-sawn boards and highly prized crotch or burl figures.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it often lightens to a medium golden brown.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $12.00 to $20.00+ per board foot depending on thickness and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Live specimen; leaves indicate a young sapling or sucker growth, likely less than 2-3 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available but threatened by Thousand Cankers Disease.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; holds screws/nails securely and takes stain and finishes excellently.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy nut-like scent when working. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen and is toxic to some plants.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wiping varnishes are highly recommended to bring out depth. Polyurethane for high-wear areas.
Identification Confidence
High (based on the pinnately compound leaves with 11-23 leaflets, serrated margins, and terminal leaflet often missing or small, characteristic of Juglans nigra).