American Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though susceptible to insect attack if exposed to untreated environments.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture. The boards are primarily flat-sawn to quarter-sawn with subtle cathedral patterning characteristic of strip flooring.
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-brown heartwood with lighter yellowish-sapwood tones. The wood exhibits a warm, golden-amber luster that deepens significantly to a rich, dark patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though susceptible to insect attack if exposed to untreated environments.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 40 to 70 years old, indicated by the deep amber patina and wear consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century installation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List. Readily available from domestic managed forests.
Common Uses
Flooring, fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, paneling, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability. Machines, turns, glues, and sands very well. Can occasionally burn during routing or cutting if feed rates are too slow due to its density.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well. Water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, varnishes, and traditional oil-varnish blends highlight the rich natural chatoyance and deep red aging.
Notable Features
Known for its distinct gum pockets, pith flecks, and fine brown pitch flecks. Possesses a mild, pleasant scent when freshly cut and darkens rapidly under sunlight.
