Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Circular ring-porous end grain; the face would show straight to wavy cathedral patterns. This log section exhibits tight annual growth rings and a classic dark pith/heartwood development.
Color Description
Creamy white to yellowish sapwood with a distinct, small chocolate-brown heartwood center. Heartwood will expand as the tree matures, darkening to a deep coffee brown over time with a dull luster.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; sapwood is highly susceptible to insect attack and decay.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, veneer, interior trim, flooring, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on grade, width, and kiln drying.
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 25-35 years based on counting the visible annual growth rings from the pith to the bark.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands easily, though tearout can occur in figured sections. Glues and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, earthy scent when cut. Contains juglone which can be a mild irritant. Known for its shock resistance and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wiping varnishes specifically to highlight the natural color. Polyurethane or lacquer for higher durability applications.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the dark chocolate heartwood, wide creamy sapwood, bark texture, and ring-porous anatomy is diagnostic for a young Juglans nigra specimen.