Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can exhibit wavy or curly patterns. The panels in the image show a fine, even-textured grain with subtle cathedral arches in the flat-sawn sections.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich red to reddish-brown, while sapwood is creamy white. The sample shows a warm, medium-reddish patina typical of aged cherry; it darkens significantly with exposure to light and oxygen.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments, and small specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot for Select/Better grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be 10-30 years old based on the deep amber oxidation of the finish and the rich, darkened heartwood color.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent. It is known for its easy machining and finishing properties, though it can burn if tools are dull or feed rates are too slow.
Notable Features
Possesses a faint, pleasant scent when being worked; contains small gum pockets (pitch pockets) which are natural characteristics of the species.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes emphasize the depth of the grain; polyurethane or lacquer provide durability for cabinetry. Note that staining can be blotchy, so a gel stain or conditioner is often used.
Identification Confidence
High. The fine texture, characteristic reddish-brown color, and specific grain movement in the door panels are diagnostic indicators of Black Cherry (Prunus serotina).