Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular; the cross-section shows concentric growth rings with a distinct pith and some minor spalting or fungal staining in the sapwood.
Color Description
Dark chocolate brown heartwood with a creamy white to pale yellowish sapwood. The heartwood can develop a lustrous patina and lighten slightly with age/UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot; however, the sapwood is susceptible to insect attack and decay.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for kiln-dried lumber; logs vary based on diameter and clarity.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut log (0-1 year) showing 25-30 growth rings; the tree was approximately 30 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; generally considered stable and sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout with figured grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, spicy scent when worked; heartwood contains natural toxins (juglone) that can affect horses but is generally safe for woodworkers minus common dust precautions.
Finish Recommendations
Tung oil or Danish oil to enhance the natural color; polyurethane for durability in high-wear areas. Does not typically require staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the sharp contrast between the dark heartwood and cream sapwood, coupled with the plate-like bark visible in the background, is characteristic of Juglans nigra.