Black Walnut — Juglans nigra

Black Walnut

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability
Durable, with good resistance to rot and moderate resistance to common wood-boring insects.

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Grain Pattern

Straight to slightly irregular grain with prominent flat-sawn cathedral patterns on the face.

Color & Appearance

Rich dark brown heartwood with occasional purplish cast and lighter pale yellow-brown sapwood, exhibiting moderate natural luster.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf (Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable, with good resistance to rot and moderate resistance to common wood-boring insects.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$8.00 to $15.00 per board foot.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 5 to 15 years based on modern furniture construction and finish patina.

Common Uses

Fine furniture, architectural millinery, cabinetry, gunstocks, and decorative veneer.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Exceptional workability with hand and machine tools, gluing and finishing smoothly with minimal tearing.

Finish Recommendations

Takes oil, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well, enhancing the deep natural chatoyancy of the grain.

Notable Features

Prized for its rich dark color, stability, and subtle shock-absorbing properties.

Learn more about Black Walnut in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 24, 2026