Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and subtle cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn face.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to grayish-brown heartwood with occasional purplish cast, contrasting with pale yellowish-gray sapwood; darkens slightly with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good resistance to decay and moderate resistance to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Kiln-dried lumber board, freshly surfaced, estimated age of harvested tree 50-80 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, turned objects, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac extremely well, enhancing the rich chatoyance and deep brown tones.
Notable Features
Possesses a distinct mild, pleasant scent when freshly cut; stable dimensional qualities and excellent shock resistance.
