Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable with good resistance to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium texture and moderate natural luster, featuring a flat-sawn to slightly irregular face pattern.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks, sometimes with a purplish or grayish hue; sapwood is nearly white to yellowish-gray. Darkens slightly over time with exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable with good resistance to heartwood decay, though susceptible 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
- Estimated to be freshly milled to moderately aged lumber (0 to 5 years old based on clean surface and minor handling marks).
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern according to the IUCN Red List; widely available from sustainably managed forests and domestic suppliers, not listed on CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turning, and specialty woodcarving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally tear out during planing if grain is irregular.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, lacquer, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Water-based or oil-based finishes enhance the rich chocolate tones of the heartwood.
Notable Features
Possesses a moderate natural luster, distinct dark coloration, and polishes to a very smooth finish. Stable in use with low shrinkage.
