Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular with curly or wavy figures; the sample shows classic cathedral patterns and flat-sawn grain texture typical of furniture panels.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light grey-brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. It has a dull, natural luster, though this sample has been stained or clear-coated. It tends to lighten with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, 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 figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated middle-aged (15-30 years) based on the style of the furniture joinery and the patination/wear on the finished surface.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably in North America.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and glues well and holds nails and screws securely. It is known for its excellent dimensional stability.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, mild odor when being worked. Contains juglone which can be an irritant. Highly prized for its rich color and unique finishing qualities.
Finish Recommendations
Takes finishes extremely well. Oil-based finishes are ideal to enhance the deep brown tones, while clear lacquers or polyurethanes provide excellent protection for furniture.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible grain architecture, pore structure visible through the finish, and characteristic 'cathedral' bloom in the center panel are definitive markers for Black Walnut.