Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Heartwood is rated as being very durable and resistant to decay; however, it is susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Principally straight-grained with a fine, uniform, and satiny texture; features subtle cathedral patterns and occasional small gum pockets or flecks characteristic of the species.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood varies from a light pinkish brown when freshly cut to a deep reddish brown with a golden luster as it ages; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It is highly light-sensitive and darkens significantly over time.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Heartwood is rated as being very durable and resistant to decay; however, it is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The warm, reddish-brown patina and darkening suggest the wood has been installed and exposed to light for at least 5 to 10 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, fine cabinetry, flooring, veneers, musical instruments (piano keys/interiors), turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; it planes, glues, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally burn if saw blades are dull or feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to oil-based finishes (like Tung or Linseed oil) which highlight the natural chatoyance; clear lacquers or polyurethanes are also common to protect the evolving patina.
Notable Features
Emit a mild, pleasant scent when being worked; contains small dark pith flecks (gum pockets) which are a natural identifying characteristic and not a defect.
