Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and closed grain. The sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern with minor gum streaks or pith flecks visible as small dark horizontal marks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown in this fresh state. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It is known for high luster and significant darkening to a deep reddish-brown with light exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; moderately resistant to insects. Not recommended for direct ground contact.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, musical instruments (especially piano keys and backs), tool handles, and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on width and grade
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young or freshly milled. The light pink color suggests it hasn't undergone significant UV oxidation/patina development yet.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered a very sustainable domestic hardwood.
Workability
Excellent. It is one of the best woods for machining and hand tools. It sands easily and glues well, though it can burn if circular saw blades are dull or feed rates are too slow.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked. Known for developing 'pitch pockets' or gum streaks. Can be prone to blotching when stained due to its diffuse-porous structure.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping varnish, lacquer, or linseed oil are preferred to highlight the natural color change. If staining, a pre-stain wood conditioner is highly recommended to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High. The pinkish hue, characteristic small gum streaks (pith flecks), and tight diffuse-porous grain structure are diagnostic of North American Black Cherry.