Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight with a fine, uniform, satiny texture; sometimes shows small gum pockets (pitch streaks) which appear as dark flecks or mineral streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich red to reddish-brown, often darkening significantly upon exposure to light. Sapwood is a creamy white to pale yellowish color. This sample shows a high contrast between the pale sapwood on the left edge and the reddish-toned heartwood.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay, though it is not as resistant to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on width and grade
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently planed; the light color suggests it has not yet undergone the deep oxidation/patina process typical of older Cherry wood.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools. It machines, glues, and finishes well. It can be prone to burning if saw blades are dull.
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant scent when being worked; known for its photosensitivity where it darkens rapidly in sunlight; contains small natural gum streaks.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes enhance the natural color deepness; clear lacquer or polyurethane are standard for protection. Avoid heavy stains as they can blotch.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-tan heartwood, distinct creamy sapwood edge, fine grain texture, and visible small gum pockets is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.