Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable with good resistance to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture and subtle cathedral patterning on the flat-sawn face.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut sapwood is yellowish-white, while the heartwood ranges from a rich light pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown. Darkens significantly with age and light exposure to a deep, warm amber-brown patina with moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable with good resistance to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $7.00 per board foot (dependent on grade and thickness)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent stock, likely freshly milled or stored for less than 1-2 years based on the light pinkish tone and minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available from sustainable domestic forests and managed woodlands.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, turning, musical instruments, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, turns, finishes, and machines very well, though can occasionally burn during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains exceptionally well, though it can sometimes blotch; application of a pre-color conditioner or gel stain is recommended. Finishes beautifully with oils, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane to enhance its natural warmth.
Notable Features
Features characteristic dark gum pockets and pith flecks visible as small streaks in the grain; possesses a mild, pleasant scent when freshly cut.
