Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. Common cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces with moderate pore size and distinct growth rings.
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. Over time, it moves from dark brown to a more golden brown with exposure to light.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $18.00 per board foot for Select/Better grade lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
40-60 years based on the oxidation of the unfinished underside, patina on the hardware contact points, and traditional joinery style.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; holds stains and finishes beautifully, though sometimes requires pore filling for a glass-smooth surface.
Notable Features
Faint, mild odor when being worked. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability and high strength-to-weight ratio. Contains juglone which can be an irritant to some.
Finish Recommendations
Usually finished with clear oils (tung or linseed), polyurethane, or lacquer to showcase the natural dark color. Shellac is also an excellent traditional primer.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood, distinct contrast with sapwood visible on the edges, and the specific grain structure under the table frame are classic indicators of North American Black Walnut.