Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but can be wavy; flat-sawn sample showing subtle cathedral figure and fine, even texture with small pith flecks or gum pockets visible.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from light pinkish brown to a deeper reddish brown; sapwood is pale yellowish white. The wood exhibits a moderate natural luster and is highly light-sensitive, darkening significantly to a deep reddish patina over time.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay; sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, tool handles, musical instruments, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh-cut or recently planed; the light color suggests it has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV darkening typical of aged cherry.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent for both hand and machine tools; machines easily, though can burn if saw blades are dull or feed speed is too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Features a distinctive, mild, cherry-like scent when being worked; known for its tendency to blotch during staining due to varying density; contains small brown gum flecks.
Finish Recommendations
Best finished with oil-based products (tung or linseed) to enhance natural darkening; gel stains are recommended if color matching is needed to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-tan heartwood contrast with the creamy sapwood, the presence of localized gum streaks, and the smooth, fine texture is characteristic of Prunus serotina.