Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Shows distinct cathedral pattern and flat-sawn grain with slight waviness and a visible small knot or burl figure on the left.
Color Description
Medium to dark chocolate brown heartwood with warm undertones; heartwood typically lightens in color over time with light exposure, unlike most woods.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable and very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Finished surface appears contemporary (0-10 years) based on the clarity of the finish and lack of significant oxidation or surface wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes finishes excellently, though some tearout can occur on figured pieces.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; famous for its excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping oils (tung or linseed) to enhance natural color, or clear polyurethane for durability. Darker stains are rarely needed as the natural color is highly prized.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of deep chocolate brown color, characteristic cathedral grain arching, and semi-ring-porous texture is diagnostic of Black Walnut.