Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. The sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral grain orientation on the face and relatively straight grain on the edge, which is typical for standard walnut dimensional lumber.
Color Description
Heartwood can range from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. In this sample, it shows a warm, medium brown with characteristic oxidation. Sapwood is typically pale yellow-gray to nearly white.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
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
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern era (10-30 years based on the use of biscuit joinery and the level of surface oxidation/patina).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Commonly cited as one of the easiest hardwoods to work with. It planes and sands well, holds glue and nails securely, and takes finishes extremely well. It can occasionally produce tearout in areas of irregular grain.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, spicy scent when being worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping varnish, Danish oil, or polyurethane. Oil-based finishes are particularly recommended as they pop the deep chocolate tones of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the color, grain structure, and the presence of biscuit joints in a furniture-thickness board are all hallmark indicators of Black Walnut used in cabinetry or furniture making.