Pithy Cherry / American Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with light cathedral figuring; notable presence of dark reddish-brown gum pockets or pith flecks following the growth rings.
Color Description
Light pinkish-brown heartwood with cream-colored sapwood visible at margins; known to darken significantly to a rich reddish-brown with exposure to UV light. Low to medium luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable heartwood; resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack. Moderately durable for indoor use.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, musical instruments, turned objects, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced stock; shows minimal oxidation or patina, retaining light pink/cream tones.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues and finishes well, though it can be prone to blotching when stained. Sharp edges are required to prevent burning during routing.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; contains natural gum deposits (pith flecks) which are a common character mark of the species.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear drying oils (tung or linseed), shellac, or lacquer to highlight natural darkening. Gel stains are recommended if color changes are desired to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of Salmon-pink coloration, fine texture, and characteristic dark gum streaks/pith flecks is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.