Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but can be irregular or wavy; end grain shows semi-ring-porous structure with distinct growth rings and moderate-sized pores. Crotch or burl patterns often appear near branch intersections.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a golden brown to a deep chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is a pale creamy white or yellowish-gray. Color darkens slightly with age but can lighten significantly with prolonged 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 paneling, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on thickness, width, and figure quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the growth ring count in the cross-section, the tree was approximately 20-25 years old at the time of harvesting.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands easily, glues well, and takes stains and finishes exceptionally well. High dimensional stability once dried.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen for some. Known for its rich natural oils and excellent shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural depth and chatoyance; polyurethane or lacquer provide durability for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct dark heartwood surrounded by a narrow band of pale sapwood, combined with the rough, deeply furrowed bark and ring-porous end grain, is characteristic of juvenile Black Walnut.