Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a cathedral figure on the flat-sawn face; moderately coarse texture with a natural semi-open pore structure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pale grayish brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. It may have a purplish or reddish cast. It tends to lighten with age and UV exposure, turning more golden-brown.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable regarding decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack (insect-bore wood). Highly resistant to rot.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and specialty turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade (Select & Better).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced lumber; shows minimal oxidation or patina, suggesting it hasn't been exposed to light for a long duration.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes finishes extremely well. It can produce a mild, distinct scent when worked.
Notable Features
Features a distinct faint, spicy odor when being worked. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance the deep color; polyurethane or lacquer provide durability. Avoid heavy stains as the natural color is highly prized.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic grayish-brown chocolate color combined with the specific cathedral grain pattern and pore structure is diagnostic of Juglans nigra.