Black Cherry (American Cherry)
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (primarily the Appalachian region and Allegheny Plateau).
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; sapwood is prone to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy face grain, flat-sawn with subtle cathedral figure, fine texture, and visible curl/gummy pockets typical of fruitwoods.
Color & Appearance
Rich golden to reddish-brown heartwood with pale creamy-yellow sapwood along the live edges. Shows characteristic darkening/patina from light exposure over time.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; sapwood is prone to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot for rough-sawn select grade lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn lumber sample, air/kiln-dried within the last 1-5 years showing mild surface oxidation and shop storage wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed; IUCN status Least Concern. Widely available and sustainably harvested in North America with FSC certification readily accessible.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, woodturning, musical instruments, veneer, and small specialty items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (primarily the Appalachian region and Allegheny Plateau).
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and turns smoothly, though figure can occasionally tear out if grain direction changes.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts oil-based finishes (danish oil, tung oil), clear lacquer, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Pre-conditioner helpful if staining, but natural finishing is preferred.
Notable Features
Distinct faint sweet aromatic scent when worked, presence of small dark gum pockets/flecks, and pronounced photo-sensitivity causing rapid darkening to a deep reddish amber.
