Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack if left unprotected.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture, featuring diffuse-porous growth rings characteristic of domestic cherry.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a rich medium reddish-brown to a deeper pinkish-brown, while sapwood is a paler yellowish-white. Exhibits notable darkening and deepening of color to a rich patina with exposure to light and age.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack if left unprotected.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (approximately 5 to 15 years based on surface oxidation and moderate patina development).
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern. Readily available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, musical instruments, and turning.
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 without a pre-conditioner.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, and varnish exceptionally well, highlighting the warm natural undertones and chatoyancy of the wood.
Notable Features
Known for its distinctive reddish-brown color evolution over time, smooth texture, and subtle gum pockets or pith flecks.
