Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern and occasional wavy figure
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray sapwood; exhibits medium luster and tends to lighten to a warm golden-brown with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated kiln-dried lumber, approximately 5 to 15 years old based on surface oxidation and processing marks
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN status of Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed domestic forests
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and turned objects
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, varnish, and lacquer very well to highlight its natural deep tones and grain depth
Notable Features
Possesses a moderate natural luster, distinct rich coloration, stable dimensional properties, and low movement in service
