Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain but can be wavy or irregular; notably open-pored. Slab shows distinctive concentric growth rings with a large, cathedral-like heartwood shape.
Color Description
Striking contrast between the creamy-white sapwood and the dark chocolate-brown to purplish-brown heartwood. The heartwood will likely lighten and become more golden over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern North America, including the Central United States and Appalachia (East Tennessee).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 to $15.00 per board foot for kiln-dried lumber; raw green slabs vary by size and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut (green); the moisture-rich appearance, lack of check-cracks, and light color of the sapwood suggest it was felled within the last few weeks to months.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well, though sharp cutters are required to avoid tearout in figured areas. Takes finishes beautifully.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet, and nutty scent when worked. Juglone in the wood can be an allergen for some. Famous for its excellent dimensional stability once dried.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance the deep chocolate tones. Clear polyurethane or lacquer provides excellent protection without yellowing the dark wood.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep brown heartwood, wide white sapwood, and furrowed bark are diagnostic for Juglans nigra in the Eastern US.
Notes
Found in East Tennessee