Black Walnut — Juglans nigra
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Black Walnut

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability
Durable

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Grain Pattern

Straight to irregular grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern and subtle wavy figure

Color & Appearance

Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with contrasting pale yellowish-grey sapwood, moderate natural luster, and dark streaks; darkens slightly with age and light exposure

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf (Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value
8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated kiln-dried lumber, relatively fresh to a few years old based on clean surfaces
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed forests

Common Uses

Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well with minimal tearout

Finish Recommendations

Takes oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well to highlight its natural chatoyance

Notable Features

Prized for its rich color, dimensional stability, shock resistance, and moderate weight

Learn more about Black Walnut in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 19, 2026