At Vermont Woods Studios, our mission is rooted in sustainability. Every piece of furniture we source online or in our showroom is made with responsibly sourced North American hardwoods— because we believe that beautiful design and conserving the places we love go hand in hand.
When customers ask us about the difference between walnut and black walnut, we’re always happy to explain— and to highlight why this species plays such a big role in sustainable American craftsmanship.
So, what’s the real difference between walnut and black walnut?
They’re the Same Tree
Here’s the short answer: walnut and black walnut are the same species. When we refer to "walnut" in American furniture making, we're almost always talking about black walnut, or Juglans nigra. It’s prized for its rich chocolate brown tones, durability, and striking grain patterns.
So whether you see it labeled as "walnut" or "black walnut," you're getting the same high-quality hardwood.
Why It Matters
We’re firm believers that understanding where your furniture comes from is part of making more sustainable choices. Unlike imported or exotic hardwoods, North American black walnut is harvested under some of the strictest forestry regulations in the world, which helps protect ecosystems and ensure long-term forest health.
When you purchase walnut wood furniture from us, you’re supporting responsible land stewardship right here at home, as well as local craftsmanship.
American Walnut vs. Black Walnut
Here’s where things can get a little tricky— American walnut is simply another common name for black walnut. Whether you see it labeled “American walnut,” “black walnut,” or just “walnut,” you’re talking about the same species: Juglans nigra.
Furniture makers sometimes use the term “American walnut” to distinguish it from imported species like English walnut. It’s grown, harvested, and crafted here in the United States under strict forestry regulations, which is why it’s a favorite for sustainable American-made furniture.
English Walnut vs. Black Walnut
While black walnut is the go-to choice for American furniture makers, you might also hear about English walnut, or Juglans regia, sometimes also called Persian walnut. This species is native to regions stretching from Southeast Europe to Western Asia and is widely cultivated for its edible nuts— the same ones you find in grocery stores.
When it comes to furniture, English walnut is lighter in color than black walnut, often with creamy to light brown tones and subtle grain patterns. It’s softer and less dense than black walnut, making it easier to work with but also slightly less durable for heavy-use pieces.
Because it’s not native to North America, most English walnut lumber in the U.S. is imported, which can carry a higher environmental footprint compared to locally sourced hardwoods. At Vermont Woods Studios, we prioritize North American species like black walnut to keep our sourcing sustainable and transparent.
Where Black Walnut Grows
Black walnut trees are native to the Eastern and Central United States, thriving in areas from Vermont to Missouri and down to the Carolinas and Mississippi River Valley. The climate and soil in these regions make for slow, steady growth, which contributes to the hardwood’s density and beauty.
In fact, some of the finest black walnut is found right here in the Northeast— one of the reasons our craftsmen love working with this incredible wood. It’s strong, stable, and perfect for heirloom-quality furniture that’s built to last.
What Does Walnut Furniture Look Like?
Walnut furniture is unmistakable due to its unique color. The wood ranges in color from light pale brown to a rich, dark chocolate color— often with subtle undertones of gray, purple, or even red. What makes walnut especially unique is its striking grain patterns, which can be straight and sleek or wavy and complex, depending on the cut.
You might notice lighter edges in walnut boards— called sapwood— which contrast beautifully with the darker heartwood, adding natural variation and visual depth. Over time, walnut gently lightens with age, developing a soft patina that highlights its warmth without losing its natural beauty.
Why We Choose Walnut
At Vermont Woods Studios, we love walnut wood not just because of how it looks, but because it’s a sustainable choice that aligns with our values of protecting forests and promoting responsible forestry here in the United States. Choosing local hardwoods like black walnut helps reduce the carbon footprint of our furniture and supports American foresters who are committed to sustainable practices.
At Vermont Woods Studios, every piece of walnut wood furniture we source reflects our commitment to sustainability, American craftsmanship, and timeless design. By choosing furniture made from responsibly harvested North American black walnut, you're supporting healthy forests and local craftsmen while purchasing heirloom quality furniture that you can feel good about– both today and for generations to come.
