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 on sapwood)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a prominent cathedral pattern from flat-sawing
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to grayish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood, showing moderate natural luster which tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina over time with UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (good decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack on sapwood)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, approximately 1-5 years old
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available and sustainably managed, not CITES listed
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though prone to occasional tearout on figured sections during planing
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well without requiring special sealers
Notable Features
Prized for its rich chocolate-brown color, excellent dimensional stability, and shock resistance; contains natural tannins
