Nogal (Peruvian Walnut) Wood Guide 2026
Juglans neotropica
Typically described as South American walnut relative
Wood Appearance

Natural Grain

Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 48 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Peru;Ecuador
- Common uses include Furniture, Cabinetry, Millwork
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium to coarse texture with straight to wavy grain.
Workability: Easy to machine and glues well.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Finishes exceptionally well with almost any product.
Color change: Lightens slightly or develops a golden patina with age.
Insect resistance: Moderately resistant to termites but not decay.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Nogal (Peruvian Walnut). Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard for imported furniture-grade lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from 6 to 10 feet.
Availability notes: Available through importers of exotic tropical hardwoods.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light to dark brown
Grain: Straight to figured
Common Uses
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Millwork
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Peruvian Walnut;Andean Walnut
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 960 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Moderately Durable
- Sourced from Peru;Ecuador
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
- Availability may vary
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Nogal (Peruvian Walnut) is unavailable or over budget.
- Black Walnut
- Butternut490 lbf Janka
- African Mahogany
Related Species
Explore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Comparisons
Calculators & Tools
Related Blog Posts
Heat Pump Guide: Types, Cost & How They Work
Heat and cool your home efficiently with one system.
Read articleAir Conditioning Guide: Types, Cost & Efficiency
Stay cool and save money on cooling.
Read articleFurnace Guide: Types, Cost & Maintenance
Keep your home warm and efficient.
Read article