Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with a semi-ring-porous texture; visible cathedral figure in flat-sawn sections and moderate open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is typically pale yellow-gray to white. It develops a rich patina and lightens slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber; likely kiln-dried and processed within the last 1–5 years based on the clean surface and lack of oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices 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; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally produce tearout on figured pieces.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant to some users; prized for its rich color and stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (like Danish oil or Tung oil) beautifully enhance the grain; polyurethane or lacquer provide excellent protection while maintaining clarity.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hue, pore structure, and grain movement are very typical of North American Black Walnut.