Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with some rift-sawn characteristic; exhibits a medium-coarse texture with semi-ring-porous structure and slight cathedral patterns appearing in flat-sawn sections.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with even darker brown streaks. Sapwood is a pale yellow-gray. The luster is moderate, and it tends to lighten over time with UV exposure (unlike many other woods).
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack (beetles/termites). Highly stable once seasoned.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, turned items, and small specialty wood objects.
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade (FAS), and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut (less than 10 years); the surface shows fresh mechanical planing marks and consistent oxidation without the deep patina characteristic of reclaimed antique lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can be prone to tearout during planing if grain is figured, but otherwise very cooperative.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for high dimensional stability and excellent shock resistance. Dust may be a sensitizer for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil or tung oil to enhance natural color; polyurethane for high-wear surfaces; shellac is also an excellent traditional primer or finish. Pre-stain conditioner is rarely needed.
Identification Confidence
High; the chocolate-brown color, distinct pore structure, transition between heartwood and sapwood visible at the edge, and texture are hallmarks of North American Black Walnut.