American Black Cherry (or Alder / Soft Maple)
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, primarily widespread throughout Eastern United States.
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; good natural resistance to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Recommended primarily for interior use.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to subtle wavy grain, flat-sawn with characteristic fine diffuse-porous texture, faint pith flecks/gum spots, and subtle rippled cathedrals.
Color & Appearance
Warm golden reddish-brown hue. Heartwood naturally oxidizes and darkens to a richer, reddish golden shade upon exposure to light. Fine uniform satiny luster.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; good natural resistance to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Recommended primarily for interior use.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 – $10.00 per board foot (Select & Better grade FAS lumber).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern fabrication, likely less than 5–10 years old. Fresh state indicated by uniform satin clear finish with minimal UV oxidation or severe ambering.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List). Abundant and sustainably managed in North American forests. Not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, knife blocks, architectural millwork, interior trim, veneer, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, primarily widespread throughout Eastern United States.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and power tools. Easy to plane, machine, glue, and sand to a high polish, though cross-grain sections can occasionally tear out if tools are dull.
Finish Recommendations
Responds exceptionally well to wipe-on polyurethane, lacquers, gel stains, or natural oils like boiled linseed or tung oil to enhance chatoyance and grain clarity.
Notable Features
Distinctive smooth satiny texture, subtle natural reddish patina development over time, fine diffuse pores, and occasional tiny dark pitch pocket pin-flecks.
