Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy; medium texture with semi-porous end grain; notable for cathedral patterns when flat-sawn
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks; sapwood is creamy white to yellow; develops a rich patina and lightens with age/exposure
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
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 small specialty turned items
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber (likely 10-20 years since harvest based on clean cuts and lack of significant oxidation deep in the fibers)
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably in North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well; may have slight tear-out on figured pieces
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone (faintly toxic); highly prized for its shock resistance and dimensional stability
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or tung oil to enhance natural color; clear polyurethane or lacquer for protection; avoid heavy stains to preserve natural character
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate brown heartwood contrasting with the light sapwood visible in the lower cut-off is characteristic of Juglans nigra