Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain predominantly visible in the split face, but can be irregular or wavy near knots; diffuse-porous to semi-ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks; sapwood is pale yellowish-gray to nearly white. Over time, it tends to lighten and take on a golden patina.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable regarding decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack (especially powderpost beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and small specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on walnut grade, width, and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be recently split firewood, likely harvested within the last 1–2 years based on the retention of bark and lack of deep weathering/graying.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally have fuzzy surfaces if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Juglone in the wood can be an irritant for some; it is valued for its dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wiping varnishes best highlight the grain and color; dark brown dyes can be used to blend sapwood with heartwood.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the dark chocolate heartwood, starkly contrasting pale sapwood, and the deeply furrowed gray-brown bark visible in the foreground is characteristic of Juglans nigra.