Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular with curly or wavy patterns; very large and distinct growth rings visible in end grain with semi-ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks; sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. High luster when finished; may undergo 'sun bleaching' turning lighter/golden over time.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (US and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut (green) logs; likely harvested within the last 1-4 weeks based on moisture in the heartwood and lack of deep checking.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. It has good dimensional stability after drying.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet, and nutty scent while being worked; contains juglone which can be a mild allergen/irritant to some; known for excellent shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are highly recommended to enhance the natural dark color; clear polyurethane or shellac also work well to preserve depth.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate brown heartwood contrasting with creamy white sapwood, combined with the deeply furrowed bark texture and growth ring architecture, is characteristic of Juglans nigra.