Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and closed grain. The sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern near the bottom and tight longitudinal lines consistent with standard millwork.
Color Description
Heartwood is light reddish-brown (amber/golden in this finished state). It oxidizes and darkens significantly with exposure to light, moving from pinkish-red to deep mahogany red. Low to medium luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; however, it is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, paneling, flooring, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (USA and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot (depending on width and grade)
Wood Age Estimate
15 to 30 years based on the door style, oxidation of the finish, and minor surface wear/scratches.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent; it is known for its superb machining properties. It planes and turns well, though it can burn easily if router bits are dull or feed rates are too slow. Glues and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Features a distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked. Often contains small black gum pockets (pith flecks) which are a natural characteristic of the species.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer (as seen on the sample) for protection. Oil-based finishes are popular to enhance the natural darkening process through oxidation.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of delicate grain lines, the specific amber-red color shift, and the typical application in a raised-panel door is characteristic of North American Cherry.