Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable (Good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and occasional small knots.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with paler sapwood; exhibits a moderate natural luster that tends to lighten to a lighter warm brown with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (Good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years based on patina and surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN, widely available domestically.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, and specialty woodturning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well to highlight its deep grain patterns.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich chocolate-brown color, stability, and shock resistance.
