Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern United States and Eastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable concerning decay resistance; moderately resistant to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral grain figure. The grain is generally straight but can be irregular or wavy; medium texture with semi-ring-porous structure.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Grayish-white to yellowish sapwood (though likely steamed here to match heartwood). Color tends to lighten and become more golden with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable concerning decay resistance; moderately resistant to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot (standard 4/4 select & better grade).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern (5-20 years); the satin finish and uniform color suggest typical contemporary commercial processing and finishing.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Eastern Canada.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, and glues well. It can exhibit slight tearout during surfacing if grain is irregular. Natural dark dust can be an irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Responds exceptionally well to oils (tung or linseed), polyurethane, and lacquer. Clear satin finishes are preferred to highlight natural figure without excessive gloss.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, nutty scent when worked. Known for its high luster and chatoyance. Highly prized for its unique aesthetic and stability among domestic hardwoods.
