Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium texture and natural pores. This sample exhibits a flat-sawn appearance with subtle cathedral characteristic and dark, streaky grain lines typical of slower growth.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from medium to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is typically pale yellow-gray, though not visible here. It has a dull matte luster in its current state and will typically lighten/gold over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (powder post beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width grade.
Wood Age Estimate
5-10 years based on the modern uniform finish and lack of deep oxidation or mechanical wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification often available.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; takes stains and finishes exceptionally. Can occasionally have irregular grain that causes tearout.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its shock resistance and dimensional stability. Dust can be a mild sensitizer.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance depth; clear polyurethane or lacquer for protection. Does not typically require stain due to natural pigment.
Identification Confidence
High; the semi-porous structure combined with the specific chocolate-brown hue and dark grain streaks are quintessential diagnostic features of Juglans nigra.