Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable with 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. May show subtle pitch flecks and occasional gum pockets.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish-brown over time with exposure to light. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable with good resistance to rot and decay, though not recommended for ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively freshly milled or recently exposed to light, showing a light pinkish-brown tone prior to deep patination.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or IUCN Red List; widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwood, woodworking, turning, carving, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally blotch during staining due to its fine pore structure.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts oils, varnishes, lacquers, and shellac wonderfully. Pre-stain conditioner or gel stain is recommended for even color absorption.
Notable Features
Features distinctive small dark gum pockets and pith flecks, with a pleasant mild scent when freshly cut. Darkens significantly with age due to oxidation and UV exposure.
