Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with visible cathedral figure in the center; medium texture with open pores.
Color Description
Rich dark brown heartwood with hints of purple and gray. Sapwood is naturally pale yellowish-gray (though likely steamed to match heartwood here). Will lighten/gold over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable (heartwood) regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack (specifically powderpost beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, and specialty wooden objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade (FAS).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced recently; lacks deep oxidation or historic patina. Board age likely 1-5 years post-processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can sometimes experience tearout in areas of irregular grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability and high strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to oils (boiled linseed oil or tung oil) which enhance the figure, or clear polyurethane for durability. Wax for a low-luster natural feel.
Identification Confidence
High; the chocolate brown coloration, distinct pore structure, and characteristic cathedral figure are hallmarks of FAS grade Black Walnut.