Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (central and eastern United States)
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Very Durable regarding decay resistance, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Irregular growth rings around a branch knot/pith region transitioning to wavy and straight grain, featuring dark open pores with noticeable chatoyance and machine mill marks across the surface.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark chocolate brown heartwood with light purplish-grey undertones, transitioning to a distinct pale yellowish-grey sapwood band along the outer edge. Darkens and takes on a golden amber hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable regarding decay resistance, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for rough-sawn dimensional lumber; live-edge slabs with high character range higher ($15.00 - $25.00+ / bd ft).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled to recently harvested timber (under 5 years processed) based on bright sapwood contrast and visible surfacing saw marks.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List status of Least Concern. Widely available and commercially harvested, non-CITES listed.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, turning blanks, live-edge slabs, acoustic guitar backs and sides, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (central and eastern United States)
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well. Potential tearout around irregular grain zones near the knot core.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes (such as Danish oil, Tung oil, or Osmo Hardwax-Oil) highlight the deep color contrast and grain depth. Film-building polyurethane or lacquer works well for table surfaces.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint sweet smell when freshly cut. Highly prized contrast between pale sapwood and dark heartwood. Moderate density with excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
