Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable; rated as very resistant to heartwood decay and moderately resistant to insect attacks.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium texture and occasional wavy figure in the growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-black heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray sapwood; displays moderate natural luster and darkens slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; rated as very resistant to heartwood decay and moderately resistant to insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 20 to 50 years old based on surface wear, weathering, and oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
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, lacquer, polyurethane, and shellac extremely well. Natural penetrating oils highlight the deep grain contrast.
Notable Features
Contains natural chemical compounds that give it a rich dark color without staining; stable dimensional properties and moderate shock resistance.
