Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained with a fine, uniform, satiny texture. Features some cathedral figuring in flat-sawn sections with occasional small gum pockets (pitch pockets) and pin knots visible as tiny dark specks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish brown with time and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish white. It exhibits a high natural luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; heartwood is rated as very resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, interior trim, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber; light color suggests it hasn't undergone significant photochemical darkening (oxidation) yet, likely processed within the last 1-2 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools. It machines easily but can experience burning if router bits or saw blades are dull or if the feed rate is too slow. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild aromatic scent when being worked. Cherry is known for its dramatic darkening over time when exposed to UV light.
Finish Recommendations
Varnish, lacquer, or polyurethane are common. Oil-based finishes (like Tung or Linseed oil) excel at highlighting the natural grain and luster while allowing the wood to darken naturally.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the light reddish-tan hue, fine grain texture, presence of small gum spots, and classic cathedral grain pattern is diagnostic for North American Black Cherry.