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
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and subtle growth ring transitions.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to grayish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood, showing moderate natural luster and darkening slightly to a warm amber brown with age.
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 $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent milled stock, estimated 1 to 5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, and turned objects.
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 sections.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well, enhancing the natural chatoyance and depth.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich chocolate-brown color, excellent dimensional stability, and shock resistance.
