Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with decorative wavy/cathedral patterns and slight crotch figure; medium texture with semi-porous growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale off-white. The lumber shows a naturally matte luster and tends to lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 2-5 years as a surfaced product. Shows minimal oxidation but refined sanding suggests modern commercial preparation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though can produce a distinct odor when cut.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant. Famed for its shock resistance and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wipe-on polyurethanes to highlight the grain. Shellac is also excellent for pop and depth.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hue, open-grain pore structure, and classic cathedral figure in the flat-sawn sections are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.