Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform, and satiny texture; flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral peaks and occasional small pitch pockets or gum spots.
Color Description
Heartwood is light pinkish-brown when freshly cut, deepening to a rich reddish-brown with age and light exposure; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It exhibits high luster and light-sensitive darkening.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable regarding rot resistance; moderately resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 1-5 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and fresh machined surface.
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 workability with both hand and machine tools; planes and glues well. The main challenge is a tendency to burn when using high-speed router bits or dull saw blades.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild scent when being worked; famous for its rapid darkening (patina) when exposed to sunlight; contains small dark gum streaks which are a natural characteristic.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all finishes; wiping oils or shellac are excellent for highlighting chatoyance. Gel stains are recommended to avoid blotchiness if coloring is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the warm reddish-pink hue, closed-pore structure, and characteristic small gum spots is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.