Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with very good resistance to heartwood decay and moderate resistance to subterranean termites.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium texture and prominent growth ring pores visible as dark dashes.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to lighter grayish-brown heartwood with a contrasting paler sapwood. Luster is moderate, and it tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with very good resistance to heartwood decay and moderate resistance to subterranean termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged lumber, likely harvested and milled within the last 10 to 30 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, carving, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured pieces during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and conversion varnishes wonderfully, enhancing the natural chatoyance and rich dark tones.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich color, shock resistance, and dimensional stability. Contains natural oils that give it a characteristic earthy scent when freshly cut.
