Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain on this specific sample, likely rift-sawn or near the edge of a flat-sawn board. Moderate, open texture with visible pores.
Color Description
Chocolate brown heartwood with some greyish undertones. Sapwood is typically pale yellowish-gray (not visible here). It tends to lighten/yellow over time and with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (beetles/termites).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, flooring, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut (1-10 years). The edges appear clean and the oxidation is minimal, suggesting recent processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues, and finishes superbly. Large pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Dust can be a sensitizer for some workers and is toxic to horses (juglone content).
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance the deep color; polyurethane or lacquer for higher protection.
Identification Confidence
High. The coffee-brown color and specific pore structure of the grain are classic indicators of American Black Walnut.
Notes
Found on ground