Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face; occasionally features small pitch pockets or gum streaks
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a deep reddish-brown with exposure to light/UV; sapwood is pale yellowish-white
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; resistant to heartwood rot but susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (USA and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on region and grade
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern stock (roughly 0-5 years since milling) based on the light color; it has not yet reached the deep patina of aged cherry
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; planes and sands exceptionally smooth, though it can burn easily if router bits or saw blades are dull
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant scent when being worked; known for its dramatic darkening over time and high photographic sensitivity to light
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance natural grain and color; clear lacquer or shellac; avoid heavy stains as it takes color blotchily without a pre-conditioner
Identification Confidence
High; the salmon-pink hue, distinct cathedral grain pattern, and fine texture are classic indicators of North American Black Cherry