Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (central and eastern United States)
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable with respect to decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy growth rings visible in end grain view, exhibiting uniform medium texture with distinct porous ring structures.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark chocolate brown heartwood with golden-tan highlights and characteristic purplish-brown undertones; dull to moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with respect to decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on grade, width, and local availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber cut; freshly machined/planed block showing recent pencil markings, likely processed within the past few years.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and commercially harvested sustainably across native regions; non-CITES listed.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, and specialty woodworking items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (central and eastern United States)
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and power tools; glues, stains, and finishes extremely well; planes smoothly with minimal tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts virtually all finishes well including penetrating oils (danish oil, tung oil), clear lacquers, shellac, and polyurethane to highlight deep color depth.
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant characteristic odor when worked; contains juglone; prized for excellent dimensional stability and workability.
