Likely Black Walnut, with American cherry as an alternative — Juglans nigra; alternative Prunus serotina

Likely Black Walnut, with American cherry as an alternative

Juglans nigra; alternative Prunus serotina · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium
Durability
Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to gently wavy, with broad cathedral-like flatsawn figure and occasional darker streaking; no strong special figure visible.

Color & Appearance

Warm medium brown to golden brown with darker brown heartwood and relatively pale sapwood; likely lightly oxidized, as walnut generally darkens and reddens with age.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$16 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried walnut; figured or exceptionally wide stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be determined reliably from a finished photograph; the surface appears relatively recent and lightly used, without pronounced antique patina.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, paneling, gunstocks, turning, veneer, and interior millwork.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked areas can tear out, and predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Apply a clear oil, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane after sanding; a washcoat or sanding sealer can help even absorption, especially across sapwood.

Notable Features

Distinctive dark streaking, moderate weight, attractive luster, and good dimensional stability; end grain is not visible here.

Learn more about Likely Black Walnut, with American cherry as an alternative in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 1, 2026