
Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with good resistance to rot when in contact with soil, though susceptible to some insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture and distinct flat-sawn cathedral patterns
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from rich reddish-brown to a deeper pinkish-brown, while sapwood is a yellowish-white. Darkens significantly to a deep, lustrous amber/reddish-brown patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with good resistance to rot when in contact with soil, though susceptible to some insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh cut or modern stock (under 10 years), showing minimal natural aging patina yet.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely abundant, not listed in CITES appendices, and readily available from sustainable managed forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwood, flooring, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though can be prone to burning during routing if fed too slowly.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, varnish, and lacquers exceptionally well, enhancing the natural rich color and chatoyancy.
Notable Features
Features distinct dark pith flecks and gum pockets. Pleasant, mild scent when freshly cut.
Notes
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