Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, with good resistance to heartwood decay and moderate insect resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture, currently being turned on a lathe showing stepped cylindrical cuts.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray sapwood visible on the top edge, moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, with good resistance to heartwood decay and moderate insect resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently harvested green wood being actively worked on a lathe, estimated to be from a tree several decades old.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available domestically in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, woodturning, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, glues, finishes, and turns very well on a lathe, though hand tools should be kept sharp to avoid minor tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, wax, lacquer, and varnish exceptionally well, enhancing the rich deep brown tones without requiring heavy stain.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich dark color, shock resistance, dimensional stability, and pleasant mild scent when freshly cut.
