Black Walnut (with possible alternative: Monkeypod / Suar wood)
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Very Durable with high resistance to decay and fungi, though susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral grain pattern with irregular, slightly wavy bands, open medium texture, and a prominent tight knot swirl.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to chocolate-colored heartwood with lighter greyish-buff and tan sapwood streaks, exhibiting natural color variation and mild chatoyance under light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with high resistance to decay and fungi, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for high-grade lumber/slabs.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample (under 10 years), showing light surface tool marks, minor surface scratches, and slight oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed; classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
Furniture making, cabinetry, live-edge slabs, turning, veneer, and gunstocks.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though care is needed around wild grain knots to prevent tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on oil finish (Tung oil, Danish oil, or Hardwax oil) to enhance natural figure and depth, topped with clear satin polyurethane or lacquer.
Notable Features
Faint pleasant characteristic odor when worked; rich deep color; non-toxic but sawdust can cause mild irritation.
