Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack if exposed.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, uniform texture. The tabletop features flat-sawn boards with distinctive knots and prominent circular branch/burl-like features at the end sections.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a rich medium brown to a deep reddish-brown, which darkens significantly upon exposure to light and age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white color.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack if exposed.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly crafted to a few years old based on the bright reddish tone and lack of heavy oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, turning, carving, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can burn if fed too slowly during routing or sawing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, and varnish very well. Often finished with penetrating oils to highlight the natural reddish-brown chatoyancy.
Notable Features
Features characteristic gum pockets and small pith flecks. Exhibits a warm, rich luster and deepens dramatically in color over time with UV exposure.
