Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable, with good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a moderate natural luster, featuring a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and some knot/swirl activity.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to lighter pale brown sapwood with occasional purplish or grayish hues. Color tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown upon prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on surface texture and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available domestically.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, carving, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though care is needed around knots to prevent tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, lacquer, polyurethane, and shellac extremely well. Often enhanced with a penetrating oil finish to highlight grain depth.
Notable Features
Stable dimensional movement, pleasant mild scent when freshly cut, excellent shock resistance.
