Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable. Rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack on the sapwood.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and a flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible in the center.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a darker dark chocolate brown with occasional purplish or reddish hues. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-gray to white. Color tends to lighten slightly over time upon exposure to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack on the sapwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated less than 1 to 5 years old based on fresh surface condition and lack of heavy patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Species is abundant, not listed on CITES appendices, and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally tear out on irregular grain.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Danish oil or water-based poly are popular for highlighting natural chatoyancy.
Notable Features
Possesses a rich natural luster, good dimensional stability, and moderate shock resistance. Non-toxic to most people, though dust can be an irritant.
