Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium texture and occasional wavy or curly figures visible in the face grain.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood, showing moderate natural luster and darkening slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, approximately 10 to 30 years since milling, showing warm oxidation patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools, glues well, takes stains and finishes excellently, though can sometimes tear out on figured areas.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well, enhancing the natural chatoyance and depth of the wood.
Notable Features
Possesses a rich natural color without staining, stable dimensional properties once dried, moderate shock resistance, and pleasant mild scent when freshly cut.
