Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable; good resistance to rot, though susceptible to some insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture and subtle cathedral grain pattern
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a rich medium reddish-brown to a deeper deep reddish-brown, while the narrow sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. Exhibits a natural golden luster and darkens significantly to a deep amber-red patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; good resistance to rot, though susceptible to some insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 5.00 to 10.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 1 to 5 years since milling, showing light oxidation with a warm reddish shift beginning to develop
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed in North American forests
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, musical instruments, turned objects, and carving
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; machines well, glues, stains, and finishes smoothly, though can occasionally burn if fed too slowly during routing
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, water-based, and solvent-based finishes beautifully; light-ambering finishes or clear coats highlight the natural chatoyance and warm up the reddish tones
Notable Features
Features characteristic tiny gum pockets and pin knots typical of cherry, with a pleasant, mild fruity scent when freshly cut
