Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. Exhibits cathedral patterns when flat-sawn. Known for highly figured crotch, burl, and curly patterns.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to dark coffee/chocolate brown. Sapwood is creamy white to pale yellow. Often displays a lustrous surface; darkens slightly and develops a rich patina over time.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to heartwood decay and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Ontario)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
High; typically ranges from $10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Living specimen; based on trunk diameter and bark texture, estimated between 40-60 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally abundant and managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; finishes to a high luster. Can have a mild dulling effect on cutters.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone (a natural herbicide) and can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues for some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear oils (Linseed or Tung) or polyurethane to highlight natural color. Shellac and lacquer also provide a classic high-end look.
Identification Confidence
High. The deeply furrowed, dark chocolate-grey bark with its characteristic 'X' or diamond-shaped ridges is a definitive visual indicator for mature Black Walnut.