Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight but can be irregular; features prominent cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces and shows some crotch figure near the live edge bark inclusions
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown with purplish streaks; sapwood is pale yellowish-gray to nearly white. It typically lightens and warms in tone over time with UV exposure
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for live-edge slabs, depending on width and figure
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to slightly seasoned (less than 2 years), based on the sharpness of the live edge and lack of deep surface oxidation or heavy graying
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally produce tearout in figured areas
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; highly prized for its dark natural color and stability
Finish Recommendations
Pure oils (tung or linseed) or clear polyurethane to enhance depth; shellac works well as a sealer
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood contrasted with the creamy sapwood and the specific bark texture are definitive for Juglans nigra