Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained and easy to work, with occasional wavy grain. It features a fine, uniform texture with visible growth rings and faint pith flecks.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich red to reddish-brown, darkening significantly with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a creamy white to pale yellowish color. It exhibits a moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
The heartwood is rated as being 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 small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from eastern Canada through the eastern United States to Mexico and Guatemala.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber; the light tan/pinkish hue suggests it has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV-induced darkening. Estimated 1-2 years post-milling.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools. It planes, glues, and finishes well. The main challenge is potential burning when using high-speed router bits or dull saw blades.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its exceptional finishing properties and the presence of small gum pockets which are natural characteristics.
Finish Recommendations
Responsive to most finishes. Oil-based finishes (like Danish oil or Tung oil) are highly recommended to enhance its natural color-deepening process. Clear lacquer or shellac also perform well.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-tan color, fine texture, faint cathedral grain, and characteristic dark gum streaks/pith flecks is diagnostic of Black Cherry.