Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with occasional wavy patterns; flat-sawn displaying cathedral arcs and fine, uniform texture.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from light pinkish-brown to a deep reddish-brown; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It has a high natural luster and significant darkening/reddening with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable regarding rot resistance and heartwood decay; susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneers, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (USA and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 20-40 years old based on the deep amber oxidation of the finish and substantial darkening of the heartwood underneath.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands very smoothly, though can be prone to burning if router bits are dull or speeds are too high.
Notable Features
Faint, mild scent when being worked; known for its exceptional finishing properties and natural chatoyance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or clears (lacquer/polyurethane) to highlight natural darkening; blotching can occur, so a washcoat or gel stain is recommended if staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of fine grain, distinctive reddish-brown oxidation, diffuse-porous structure, and classic cathedral figure in a cabinet setting is characteristic of Black Cherry.