American walnut, also known as black walnut (Juglans nigra), has a number of outstanding properties:

• • • The heartwood varies in color from a light brown to a deep chocolate brown, sometimes with darker, even purple streaks. Over time and under the influence of UV light, it can become slightly lighter in color.
    • The sapwood is significantly lighter, creamy white to light gray-yellowish. This color contrast between heartwood and sapwood is a characteristic feature.
    • The grain is usually straight, but can also be wavy or irregular, which can lead to very decorative and sought-after figures such as “curly”, “crotch” or “burl”.
    • Compared to European walnut, American walnut tends to be darker and more uniform in color.
  • Hardness and density: American walnut is a medium to heavy hardwood with good strength and impact resistance. However, it is not excessively hard, which explains its good workability.
  • Machinability: It can be worked very well with both hand and machine tools. It can be easily sawn, planed, turned, drilled and profiled.
  • Gluing and surface treatment: It can be glued, nailed and screwed well. Surface treatments such as staining and polishing produce excellent results.
  • Drying and dimensional stability: The wood dries slowly, but tends to have good dimensional stability after drying, i.e. it warps and shrinks little.
  • Durability: The heartwood is classified as very durable against wood-destroying fungi, but is susceptible to insect infestation.

  Distribution and growth:

  • The American walnut tree is native to large parts of eastern North America and grows both in mixed forests and on plantations.
  • The trees can reach impressive heights of 20-40 meters and trunk diameters of 30-100 cm.

  Use:

  Due to its beauty, good workability and durability, American walnut wood is very versatile:

  • Furniture construction: It is one of the most sought-after woods for high-quality furniture, from tables and chairs to cabinets.
  • Interior fittings: It is often used for wall cladding, panels, doors, stairs and other architectural elements.
  • Cabinet construction: Kitchen cabinets and other high-quality built-in cabinets are often made from walnut.
  • Floors: Walnut parquet is popular due to its color and durability.
  • Veneer: High-quality walnut logs are often processed into veneers to refine less noble substrates.
  • Woodturning and carving: The good workability makes it ideal for turned objects and fine carvings.
  • Musical instruments: It is occasionally used for the construction of guitars and other instruments.