American black walnut (Juglans nigra) is a popular hardwood species that is native to the eastern United States. This species is widely used in high-end furniture, cabinetry and decorative woodworking due to its rich, dark colour and distinctive grain patterns.

The heartwood (the wood closest to the centre of the tree, or inner rings) of American black walnut ranges from light to dark chocolate brown, with a purple tinge and occasional streaks of lighter sapwood (the outer rings of the tree).

American black walnut is a strong and stable wood, with good dimensional stability and resistance to wear and tear. It is also a very workable wood, and can be easily cut, planed, sanded and shaped. The wood has excellent finishing properties, taking stain and polish well to produce a smooth and lustrous surface.

Black walnut wood contains a natural oil that makes it resistant to fungal and insect attack, making it a popular choice for outdoor furniture and decking.

Overall, American black walnut is a beautiful and versatile wood species that is prized for its rich colour and distinctive grain patterns. While it may be relatively expensive, its natural durability and excellent working properties make it a popular choice for high-end woodworking projects.

Depending on what you need, Premier Forest Products can create bespoke profiles and mouldings to your specific requirements at our specialist machining facilities; or for something extra special, at our in-house joinery workshop.  The gallery shows American black walnut decking and customised acoustic panels which were designed and made in-house by our experienced carpenters.

American Black Walnut at a glance:

• Botanical name: Juglans nigra
• Common names: Black Walnut
• Colour: Pale to dark brown with hint of purple
• Grain: Straight, sometimes irregular
• Texture: Medium to coarse
• Hardness: Janka hardness rating of 1,010 lbf (4,490 N)
• Durability: Highly Durable
• Density: Approx 610-660 kg/m³
• Workability: Easy if the grain is straight and regular. Can be steam bent, glues and stains well
• Stability: Excellent

*The Janka hardness test measures the resistance of a sample of wood to denting and wear.