Black Walnut (Sapwood)
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular, rift-sawn appearance with fine, uniform texture and open pores.
Color Description
Pale yellowish-white to light gray-brown (sapwood). Heartwood would be dark chocolate brown. Low luster and will yellow slightly with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is very durable, but sapwood is perishable and susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Commonly $8.00 - $12.00 per board foot, though sapwood-heavy pieces are often valued lower.
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled or surfaced (less than 1-2 years) based on lack of oxidation and clean tool marks.
Sustainability Status
Abundant; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well. Occasionally prone to fuzzy grain if tools are dull.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant or allergen to some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil, wipe-on poly, or shellac to enhance the subtle grain without over-darkening the light sapwood.
Identification Confidence
High; the pore structure, color transition, and characteristic grain texture are classic indicators of Juglans nigra sapwood.