Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture; features subtle cathedral patterns on the flat-sawn planks and occasional small pitch pockets or pin knots as visible in the surface.
Color Description
Light pinkish-brown heartwood with some pale yellowish sapwood visible at the edges; characterized by significant darkening to a deep reddish-brown with age and UV exposure, showing a moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; moderately resistant to insects but susceptible to marine borers.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
6.00 to 10.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Vintage modern reconstruction; the oxidation level and finish wear suggest the lumber was harvested and milled 10-20 years ago.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and considered a sustainable choice.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; planes smoothly, though figured grain may cause minor tearout; glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; contains small gum pockets (pitch pockets) which are a natural characteristic of the species.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or clear lacquer to enhance the natural color change; shellac is also excellent for bringing out depth in the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the warm reddish-tan hue, presence of characteristic small black gum pockets, and the specific cathedral grain pattern are diagnostic for North American Cherry.