Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform, and satiny texture; features small pith flecks and occasional gum pockets which are common to this species.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown in this raw state, which will darken to a deep reddish-brown with age and light exposure; sapwood is pale yellowish-white and clearly demarcated.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay, though it is not particularly resistant to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneers, turned objects, and high-end musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $4.50 - $8.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently planed; the light color indicates it has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV-induced darkening.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent; it is known for being easy to machine, glue, and sand. It planes exceptionally well but can suffer from burning if router bits or saw blades are dull.
Notable Features
Mild, pleasant scent when being worked; famous for its dramatic darkening over time known as a 'patina'. It has excellent dimensional stability once dried.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based finishes like tung or boiled linseed oil to pop the grain; also takes polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac well. Avoid heavy staining as the natural color is highly prized.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-pink hue, distinct gum streaks, grain texture, and characteristic 'cathedral' figure in the center of the board is classic for Black Cherry.