American Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though heartwood is rated as moderately durable to non-durable regarding ground contact; susceptible to some wood-boring insects.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture. Shows cathedral grain patterns from flat-sawing, along with characteristic random pitch pockets and small gum veins visible as dark streaks.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a rich light pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown, while the narrow sapwood is a creamy yellowish-white. Exhibits a moderate natural luster and darkens significantly to a deep, warm amber-red patina upon exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though heartwood is rated as moderately durable to non-durable regarding ground contact; susceptible to some wood-boring insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled to recently dried lumber (less than 1 to 5 years old), showing minimal natural light aging so far.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES Appendices or IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Abundant and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwood, flooring, interior joinery, musical instruments, carving, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability. It machines, glues, turns, and finishes very well. Can sometimes burn when being routed or shaped due to friction if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and clear finishes exceptionally well. Oil-based finishes, shellac, and varnishes enhance the natural warm red undertones and depth.
Notable Features
Known for its distinct reddish color evolution over time, pleasant aromatic scent when freshly cut, and signature black knot clusters or gum streaks.
