Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained with a fine, uniform, satiny texture. Most common are flat-sawn cathedral patterns, though this sample exhibits a subtle wavy figure and some small gum pockets typical of the species.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown when freshly cut, darkening to a deep golden-brown or reddish-brown with age and exposure to light. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It has a moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable. Heartwood is very resistant to decay, though the sapwood is susceptible to attack by common furniture beetles. Exceptional dimensional stability once seasoned.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, flooring, musical instruments (pianos), woodturning, and small specialty wooden objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber likely kiln-dried. Lack of deep oxidation suggests it is less than 1 year post-milling.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably throughout its range.
Workability
Excellent. It is known as one of the best woods for machining and hand tools. It planes, sands, and glues well. The only challenge is a tendency to burn when using dull router bits or saw blades due to its high sugar content.
Notable Features
Often contains small black gum pockets (pith flecks) which are a natural characteristic. It has a mild, pleasant scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Easy to finish. Responds well to oil-based finishes (like tung or linseed oil) which enhance the darkening process. Shellac and lacquer are also excellent choices. Use of a wood conditioner is recommended before staining to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High. The pinkish-tan hue, distinctive fine grain, and the presence of small dark gum streaks / flecks are characteristic markers of Prunus serotina.