Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but frequently shows a slight wave; features a distinctive cathedral pattern when flat-sawn as seen in the central column. May contain small gum pockets (pitch flecks).
Color Description
Light pinkish brown to reddish-brown heartwood. This sample shows the characteristic golden-brown ambering of aged cherry. It will continue to darken significantly over time with exposure to light, eventually reaching a deep reddish-brown.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable regarding rot resistance, though moderately resistant to insect attack. It is highly valued for indoor stability but not recommended for ground contact.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turned objects, high-end joinery, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $7.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be 10-30 years old based on the development of its warm amber patina and the oxidation relative to the surrounding painted shelving.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered a sustainable domestic hardwood with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent. It is known for being easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily with high-speed router bits or dull saw blades. It glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Features a faint, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its photo-reactive properties (darkening in sunlight) and very smooth, closed-pore texture.
Finish Recommendations
Clear oils, shellac, or polyurethane. Avoid heavy pigments or gel stains which can obscure the natural grain and hinder the beautiful natural darkening process.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive cathedral grain pattern, fine texture, presence of small dark gum streaks, and warm reddish-brown patina are classic diagnostic features of aged Prunus serotina.