Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. Shows cathedral patterns in flat-sawn cuts and can exhibit crotch or burl figure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown, sometimes with purple or reddish streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow to white. It tends to lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on figure and width (8/4 or 4/4 thickness).
Wood Age Estimate
The standing tree/log shows deep, furrowed bark and significant oxidation/weathering, suggesting an age of 40-70 years based on growth diameter.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably, though under pressure from Thousand Cankers Disease.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; holds screws/nails securely. Dulls cutters slightly more than softer hardwoods due to density.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be toxic to some plants and horses (shavings). Highly prized for its unique chocolate-tone heartwood.
Finish Recommendations
Best with clear penetrating oils (Tung or Linseed) to highlight grain, or polyurethane for high-wear surfaces. French polish/shellac is excellent for fine furniture.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The deeply furrowed, dark, 'diamond-pattern' bark and the rich brown heartwood visible in the damaged section are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.