Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with visible cathedral figure on the flat-sawn face; semi-porous texture with medium-coarse grain.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a creamy greyish-brown to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellow-grey. Natural luster is medium; wood tends to lighten slightly over time with heavy UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The board shows signs of being relatively fresh rough-sawn lumber, likely kiln-dried or air-dried within the last 1-3 years based on the lack of deep oxidation or graying.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; holds screws and nails securely. Produces a distinct, pleasant aroma when cut.
Notable Features
Features a unique faint scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant to some users. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wiping varnishes exceptionally well to highlight depth; dewaxed shellac or polyurethane are also common. No grain filler usually required unless a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-grey hue of the unfinished heartwood, the specific grain structure, and the contrast with the lighter sapwood edge are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.