Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with some cathedral arching; features moderate irregularity around a central pith crack and small knots. Exhibits a fine, open-pored texture typical of flat-sawn walnut.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from medium to dark chocolate brown with distinct purplish-red streaks. Sapwood is creamy white to pale yellow. Luster increases significantly with finishing; will lighten and develop a golden patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable regarding decay resistance, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot for Select/Better wide boards; live-edge slabs often command a premium.
Wood Age Estimate
Recently processed/kiln-dried timber; the live-edge sapwood is bright and lacks heavy oxidation, suggesting it has been harvested and milled within the last 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes stains/finishes exceptionally. Moderate blunting effect on cutters due to density.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, nut-like scent when being worked. Known for its high shock resistance and excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant to some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (tung or linseed) to highlight depth, or clear polyurethane for protection. Shellac is an excellent sealer to prevent color bleeding into the sapwood.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate-brown heartwood with characteristic reddish-brown streaks, the sharp contrast of the pale sapwood, and the specific grain structure around the pith are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.