Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. This sample shows straight to slightly wavy grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and some subtle figure/striation.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Often lightens over time with exposure to UV light unless finished with UV inhibitors.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for 4/4 select/better rough-sawn lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh cut or recently surfaced. The sharp, rough edges and lack of significant oxidation/patina suggest it is likely less than 2 years old since being milled.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably in North America.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes finishes exceptionally. Can occasionally have tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet, and nutty scent when worked. Contains juglone which can be an irritant. Highly prized for its deep color and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (boiled linseed oil or tung oil) enhance the depth and figure. Polyurethane or lacquer are recommended for durability. A sanding sealer is useful to prevent 'blotching' in lighter sapwood areas.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood transition to creamy sapwood, coupled with the semi-ring-porous grain structure visible in the image, is diagnostic of Juglans nigra.