Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture. Shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern on the face and includes a small tight knot near the top left corner.
Color & Appearance
Light pinkish-brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a narrow, pale yellowish sapwood. The wood darkens significantly to a rich, deep reddish-brown patina over time with exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent milled lumber, estimated at 1 to 5 years old based on clean edges and light initial patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN. Readily available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, interior paneling, musical instruments, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally burn during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and varnish very well. A light sanding followed by a wiping stain or clear coat highlights its natural chatoyance.
Notable Features
Features characteristic dark pith flecks and gum pockets. Known for its remarkable aging process where it develops a rich reddish-brown luster.
