Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable, with good resistance to decay but vulnerable to insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a deep rich reddish brown over time with exposure to light; sapwood is a narrow yellowish-white
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable, with good resistance to decay but vulnerable to insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot for kiln-dried lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 30 to 50 years old based on ring count and log diameter
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern, widely abundant in North America, not listed on CITES appendices
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, woodworking, turned objects, carving, and interior millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally blotch during staining
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, lacquer, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well; pre-stain conditioner recommended to prevent blotching if applying a dark stain
Notable Features
Features distinct reddish-brown heartwood, a pleasant aromatic scent when freshly cut, and gum pockets or small pith flecks are common
