
Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-gray sapwood; darkens slightly with age and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8 to 15 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated recently harvested to a few years old based on clean edges and fresh face grain appearance.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally abundant and sustainably managed.
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 well, though can occasionally tear out on irregular grain.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well to highlight its deep, rich color tones.
Notable Features
Possesses a moderate natural luster, good dimensional stability, and shock resistance.