Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. The sample shows a flat-sawn surface with moderate texture and some visible end-grain checking.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. This sample displays the classic muted brown tones of Walnut, which likely includes some sapwood near the bottom edge.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Primarily known for high decay resistance, though the sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width, length, and grade (FAS).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly sawn/Rough cut. The rough texture from a bandsaw or circular mill and the absence of significant UV graying suggests it was cut within the last 6 to 12 months.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, provided the grain is straight. It glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can exhibit some tear-out if the grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild spicy scent when being worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (like Danish oil or Tung oil) are highly recommended to enhance the deep brown tones. Polyurethane or lacquer can be used for extra durability.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The color palette of deep browns and chocolate hues, combined with the open-pore structure visible in the rough grain and the nature of the checking, is highly characteristic of Black Walnut.