Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained, fine, uniform, and satiny texture; flat-sawn with subtle cathedral peaks and occasional small pin knots (pith flecks).
Color Description
Light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a deep golden reddish-brown over time with exposure to light; sapwood is pale yellowish-white.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $5.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/contemporary (likely 1-5 years post-processing based on light patina and machine sanding marks).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; planes and sands easily. Can burn if using dull router bits at high speeds.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; known for its dramatic darkening (photo-reactivity) over time; may have small gum pockets/pith flecks.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well; oil-based finishes are highly recommended to enhance natural darkening; blotching can occur with pigment stains if not pre-conditioned.
Identification Confidence
High; the warm reddish-tan hue, fine closed-grain texture, and specific pin-knot characteristics are hallmark indicators of Black Cherry.