Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly irregular or wavy grain with a medium texture
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to chocolate heartwood with occasional purplish cast, contrasting sharply with pale yellowish-gray sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log, estimated tree age around 50-80 years based on diameter and growth rings
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List, widely available locally and through domestic suppliers
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, turning, and specialty woodworking
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though prone to occasional tearout on figured pieces
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well to enhance its natural chatoyance and rich color
Notable Features
Prized for its rich color, stability, shock resistance, and pleasant odor during machining; bark shows deep furrows characteristic of mature walnut
