Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable. Good resistance to rot and decay, though not recommended for ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with a fine, smooth texture. The sample shows a prominent flat-sawn cathedral grain pattern with some subtle mineral streaks (gum pockets) visible as dark, irregular markings running diagonally.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a rich light reddish-brown to a deeper, darker reddish-brown. Sapwood is a narrow band of pale yellowish-white. Cherry is famously known for darkening significantly over time and with light exposure, developing a deep, lustrous patina.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable. Good resistance to rot and decay, though not recommended for ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate to High, typically ranging from $5.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent milled lumber, estimated between 2 to 10 years old based on the surface oxidation and lack of heavy wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Readily available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwood, molding, turning, carving, musical instruments, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very good workability. Machines, turns, glues, and finishes exceptionally well. Can occasionally burn during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow due to its density.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, shellac, and varnishes exceptionally well. Oil-based finishes or light wiping varnishes highlight the warm reddish undertones and enhance the natural chatoyance.
Notable Features
Characterized by distinctive dark pith flecks, gum pockets, and fine brown pitch streaks, along with a pleasant, mild scent when freshly cut. Highly valued for its aging process and rich chatoyance.
