Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable to durable, with good resistance to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture, showing growth ring boundaries on the end grain characteristic of a ring-porous or semi-ring-porous hardwood.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray sapwood. The color tends to lighten slightly to a warm light brown as it ages and is exposed to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable to durable, with good resistance to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a relatively recent cut, likely processed within the last 1 to 5 years based on the crisp edges and fresh surface texture.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN; widely available and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured pieces during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well, enhancing its natural depth and chatoyance.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich color, shock resistance, and dimensional stability. Produces a moderate amount of fine dust when sanded.
