Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with some waviness; visible semi-ring-porous structure and medium-to-coarse texture; flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible on wider faces.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light coffee brown to deep chocolate brown with dark streaks. Sapwood is characteristic pale yellowish-white. It develops a lustrous patina and usually turns lighter/more golden with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding rot resistance; moderately resistant to insect attack, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetles.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, and specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness and FAS grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The lumber appears to be freshly milled or recently kiln-dried, as it lacks heavy oxidation or silvering, showing vibrant natural brown tones.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified sources are common in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues and finishes well. Low silica content prevents rapid tool blunting, though tearout can occur on figured pieces.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, earthy scent when worked. High tannin content. It is known for its exceptional dimensional stability after drying.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) or polyurethane are recommended to highlight the deep grain. Avoid heavy stains that mask the natural chocolate hues.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep brown heartwood contrasted with the creamy sapwood and the specific porous grain structure are quintessential characteristics of North American Black Walnut.