Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable. Good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack, though heartwood is much more durable than sapwood.
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Grain Pattern
Irregular and swirled grain surrounding a prominent knot, flat-sawn appearance with organic growth rings and rich figuring.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to chocolate heartwood with distinct lighter yellowish-brown sapwood at the bottom edge. Possesses natural luster and will gradually lighten to a warm golden-brown patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack, though heartwood is much more durable than sapwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00+ per board foot depending on width, thickness, and presence of character/knots.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently cut or dried slab, estimated 1 to 5 years old based on clean edges and fresh coloration.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Red List status is of least concern. Widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, carving, veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability. Cuts, glues, finishes, and turns very well. Can sometimes tear out on figured areas or around knots during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes (like Danish oil or tung oil), polyurethane, and lacquer exceptionally well, enhancing the rich chatoyance and depth of the dark brown heartwood.
Notable Features
Features a prominent branch knot creating unique swirling grain patterns, moderate weight, and a pleasant, mild natural scent when freshly cut.
