Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight but often with wavy or irregular figure near the crotch or base; semi-ring-porous with distinct growth rings shown in the cross-section.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to chocolate brown; sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. The heartwood will often develop a rich patina over time, while sun exposure can cause it to lighten slightly.
Hardness Rating
1,010 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 trim, veneer, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on width, figure, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut log (likely within 1-2 weeks) based on the lack of oxidation on the end grain and the presence of moist, intact bark.
Sustainability Status
Stable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and harvested responsibly in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it has a distinct odor when being worked.
Notable Features
Faint, mild odor when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant to some individuals and is toxic to certain plant species; prized for its dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are highly recommended to enhance the natural dark color; polyurethane or lacquer for high-wear surfaces. No special preparation required other than standard sanding.
Identification Confidence
High. The deeply furrowed, dark 'diamond' pattern bark combined with the distinct contrast between the dark chocolate heartwood and thin creamy sapwood are characteristic of Juglans nigra.