Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable; rated as very resistant to heartwood decay and moderately resistant to insect attacks
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a prominent cathedral pattern on the face-sawn board
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown heartwood with occasional purplish cast, contrasting with a paler grayish-white sapwood visible at the bottom edge; color tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with age and UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; rated as very resistant to heartwood decay and moderately resistant to insect attacks
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled kiln-dried lumber, estimated 1 to 5 years since harvesting
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested in North America
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally tear out on irregular grain
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well, enhancing the rich chatoyance of the dark heartwood
Notable Features
Possesses a moderate natural luster, moderate weight, and excellent dimensional stability; contains juglone which can be an allergen to some individuals
