Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with very good decay resistance and moderate insect resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Irregular and wavy grain with prominent swirling knot and burl-like cluster formations across a flat-sawn slab surface.
Color & Appearance
Rich deep brown heartwood with darker streaks and contrasting lighter yellowish-grey sapwood visible near the edge; exhibits good natural luster and warms to a lighter amber-brown with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with very good decay resistance and moderate insect resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8 to $20 per board foot, higher for figured slabs.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be between 10 to 30 years based on the finished slab condition and modern fabrication appearance.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed domestic forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, turned objects, and decorative veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally excellent workability with both hand and tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though irregular grain around knots can cause minor tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, lacquer, and polyurethane finishes exceptionally well, highlighting the chatoyance and rich depth of the grain.
Notable Features
Features striking swirling grain patterns and knots with a rich natural color palette, moderate weight, and excellent dimensional stability.
