Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture; shows minor knots and flat-sawn cathedral patterns characteristic of standard lumber cuts.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to grayish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood; exhibits a moderate natural luster and darkens slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 20 to 50 years old based on the patina, oxidation level, and surface wear visible on the board.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed domestic forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, glues, and finishes very well, though prone to occasional tearout on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac extremely well; hand-rubbed oil finishes particularly enhance the deep chatoyance and grain contrast.
Notable Features
Possesses a rich natural color, good dimensional stability, moderate shock resistance, and a mild, pleasant scent when freshly cut.
