Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
The grain is typically straight but can be irregular; this sample shows a straight-to-slightly-wavy pattern with some diffuse-porous characteristics common in flat-sawn or rift-sawn cuts.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. This sample exhibits the classic chocolate-brown tones of dried heartwood with a low natural luster.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (varies by grade and width).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of significant oxidative darkening or antique patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, and sands well, though some tearout can occur on irregular grain. Glues and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet, and nutty scent when worked. It contains juglone which can be an irritant. Highly prized for its dimensional stability and rich natural color.
Finish Recommendations
Responds exceptionally well to oil-based finishes (tung oil, linseed oil) which deepen the chocolate tones. Polyurethane and lacquer also work well for higher durability.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive dark brown color, pore structure visible in the grain, and overall texture are classic indicators of North American Black Walnut.