Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy; medium texture with semi-ring-porous structure showing distinct growth rings
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks; sapwood is pale yellow-gray; color tends to lighten over time with UV exposure
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay but susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years (based on patina, surface wear, and oxidation of the dark finish)
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable in its native range
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well; machines easily though figure can cause tearout
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy odor when being worked; contains juglone which can be an allergen; high degree of dimensional stability
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural darkness; polyurethane or lacquer for durability on table surfaces
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate brown color, characteristic pore arrangement, and grain structure are definitive for Black Walnut