Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with visible cathedral patterns on the flat-sawn face; features a semi-porous texture and occasional irregular or wavy sections near the knots/heart.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from medium to dark chocolate brown with visible purplish or reddish undertones. Sapwood is typically pale yellowish-grey. It develops a lustrous patina and tends to lighten slightly over time with heavy UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Calculated at approximately $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on grade (FAS) and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber, likely milled within the last 1-3 years; exhibits crisp edges and modern machine surfacing without significant oxidation or wear.
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. Planes and glues well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout in areas of irregular grain. It takes finishes and stains exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant for some. Known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are highly recommended to enhance the natural depth and color. Clear polyurethane or lacquer also works well to preserve the dark tones without yellowing.
Identification Confidence
High: Identification is based on the characteristic chocolate-brown color, distinct earlywood pores visible in the cathedral grain, and the specific texture typical of North American Black Walnut.