Black Cherry (American Cherry)
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (primarily Appalachian region, Pennsylvania, and New York)
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable with respect to decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn, generally straight to slightly wavy grain with characteristic smooth, fine texture and subtle cathedral grain arches visible along the board.
Color & Appearance
Light golden-pinkish to reddish-brown heartwood. Highly light-sensitive, darkening significantly to a deep rich reddish-brown over time with exposure to UV rays and age.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable with respect to decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade, width, and regional availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent/milled board in new condition based on clean surface, light color exposure, and fresh store receipt attached nearby.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List). Not CITES listed. Widely available, sustainably harvested, and FSC certified sources commonly available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments, turned objects, and specialty wooden items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (primarily Appalachian region, Pennsylvania, and New York)
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands exceptionally smooth, though cross-grain sections or figured areas can experience mild tearout if tools are not kept sharp. Glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds exceptionally well to oil finishes (boiled linseed oil, tung oil) to highlight grain chatoyance, followed by clear coats like shellac, polyurethane, or lacquer. Staining is usually unnecessary as it darkens naturally.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint sweet scent when worked. May contain tiny dark gum pockets/flecks which are natural character marks. Highly prized for its smooth satin sheen and rich reddish patina that develops over time.
