Walnut
Juglans nigra • North America
Domestic Hardwood
$$$
American Black Walnut is a premium domestic hardwood prized for its rich, dark chocolate-brown color and fine, straight grain. Highly sought after for fine furniture, cabinetry, and decorative applications.
Janka Hardness
1010
Density
38 lbs/ft³
Moisture
Match service conditions
Fire Rating
Assembly-specific
Durability
No fixed service-life guarantee
Price Range
$$$
This page covers walnut appearance and interior applications, not current inventory or a universal fire rating. For thickness-specific prices, grading exceptions, sapwood and milling, see the Black Walnut purchasing guide.
Appearance
Rich chocolate brown to purplish-black
Key Characteristics
- •Rich, dark color
- •Fine, straight grain
- •Excellent workability
- •Good stability
- •Beautiful natural luster
- •Ages to a richer tone
Common Applications
- •Fine furniture
- •Cabinetry
- •Interior millwork
- •Gunstocks
- •Musical instruments
- •Decorative veneers
Maintenance Requirements
Low maintenance for interior use. Occasional dusting and polishing. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Advantages
- Stunning dark color
- Premium appearance
- Excellent workability
- Highly valued
- Good dimensional stability
- Takes finish beautifully
Considerations
- Premium pricing
- Not suitable for outdoor use
- Can be expensive
- Color variation between boards
- Sapwood contrasts with heartwood