Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium-coarse texture; shows some natural irregularities and pith flecks near the center. Flat-sawn appearance with moderate cathedral transition.
Color & Appearance
Rich chocolate brown heartwood with purplish-gray undertones; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It tends to lighten slightly and develop a golden patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or surfaced rough-sawn lumber, likely kiln-dried within the last 1-2 years based on the lack of deep oxidation or graying.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. Minimal blunting effect on cutters, though tearout can occur in figured sections.
Finish Recommendations
Pure tung oil or Danish oil to enhance depth and chatoyance; polyurethane or lacquer for high-wear surfaces. Shellac is also an excellent traditional choice.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant to some. Known for exceptional dimensional stability.
