HardwoodDurability class 1FSC available

Black Walnut

Juglans nigra

Heartwood can range from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Color can sometimes have a grey, purple, or reddish cast. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Figured grain patterns such as curl, crotch, and burl are also seen.

Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) is a classic North American hardwood celebrated for its deep chocolate-brown heartwood, occasional purple/grey undertones and striking figure in curl, crotch and burl.

It machines well and finishes to a luxurious, low-gloss depth with oil or clear coats, making it a cornerstone timber for furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks and decorative veneer. Naturally durable for an interior hardwood, walnut is best used indoors or in protected settings, where its colour and figure can be the star.

About this data — sources, methodology & acknowledgements →Data last updated: 19 May 2026