Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with some cathedral patterning visible in the flat-sawn orientation; can exhibit irregular or wavy patterns near knots or crotch areas.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to deep chocolate brown; sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. The sample shows a warm, medium-brown patina. It typically develops a more golden-brown hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Eastern Canada
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 – $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years based on the ambering of the finish and the characteristic mellowing of the dark heartwood tones into a lighter brown.
Sustainability Status
Stable; not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; planes well and takes a very smooth finish; glue-ups are reliable, though pre-drilling is recommended for screws.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone; prized for its dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural depth; clear lacquers and polyurethanes provide durability while preserving the iconic brown color.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the color, diffuse-porous look, and grain structure are highly characteristic of Walnut, though lighting and surface finish can sometimes mimic stained Cherry or Butternut.