Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable with respect to decay resistance, though sapwood remains susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with visible flat-sawn cathedral patterns, subtle dark growth rings, and moderate natural pore texture.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light golden brown to rich dark chocolate brown with darker purplish streaks; light yellow-white to pale cream sapwood visible along the live edge margin. Lightened slightly by surface sanding.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with respect to decay resistance, though sapwood remains susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot (depending on board width, figure, grade, and local market conditions).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Roughly 1 to 5 years post-harvest; freshly sawn/surfaced lumber showing raw tool marks and minimal UV oxidation on the un-finished face.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); not listed on CITES. Widely available and sustainably harvested across North America.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, live-edge slabs, and specialty woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada)
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and power tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well. Moderate tearout potential around irregular grain transitions.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (Tung oil, Danish oil, or Hardwax oils) bring out maximum chatoyance and grain depth; clear polyurethane or lacquers work well for higher durability.
Notable Features
Distinct faint mild aroma when worked; contains natural juglone (mild allergen); prized for dimensional stability, workability, and rich natural coloring.
