Black Walnut (Sapwood/Transition area)
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with slight wavy and irregular cathedral patterns visible on the face; fine, uniform texture with occasional small knots and characteristic creamy swirling.
Color Description
Light cream to pale yellowish-gray (sapwood) with streaks of tan and light brown; low to medium luster; tends to yellow or darken slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is very durable, but sapwood (shown) is non-durable and susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, flooring, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $14.00 per board foot (standard grade), though sapwood is often valued lower than dark heartwood.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh milled/planed stock; likely 1-3 years old based on lack of significant oxidation, crisp edges, and pale color of the sapwood.
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 smoothly, glues well, and takes a high finish; steam-bends well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; known for its excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or clear wipe-on polyurethanes work best to highlight the subtle grain; sapwood may require staining if a uniform dark appearance is desired to match heartwood.
Identification Confidence
High; the grain swirl, color transition, and characteristic pore structure visible in the planed surface are hallmarks of Juglans nigra sapwood.