American Black Walnut
Name:
Juglans nigra
Origin:
Eastern United States
Colour:
Heartwood can range from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. The colour can sometimes have a grey, purple, or reddish cast. Sapwood is pale yellow-grey to nearly white. Figured grain patterns such as curl, crotch, and burl are also seen.
Grain:
The grain is usually straight but can be irregular. Has a medium texture and moderate natural lustre.
Rot Resistance:
Black Walnut is rated as very durable in terms of decay resistance, though it is susceptible to insect attack.
Typical Applications:
Furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior panelling, veneer, turned items, and other small wooden objects and novelties.
Density:
660 kg/m³ average
Workability:
Typically easy to work provided the grain is straight and regular. Planer tear-out can sometimes be a problem when surfacing pieces with irregular or figured grain. Glues, stains, and finishes well, (though walnut is rarely stained). Responds well to steam bending.