Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable (resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack on sapwood)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown heartwood with lighter contrasting lighter brown and grayish sapwood; known to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack on sapwood)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated relatively modern (recent lumber, well-dried with finished surfaces)
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainably harvested in North America
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though can occasionally tear out on irregular grain
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane very well, enhancing the deep chatoyance of the grain
Notable Features
Prized for its rich color, shock resistance, and stability; moderate weight and distinct mild scent when freshly worked
