Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and closed grain. The interior of the bowl displays a beautiful cathedral figure and elliptical rings resulting from the lathe-turning process through the growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood starts as a light pinkish brown when freshly cut (as seen in this bowl), and will darken to a deep reddish-brown with a golden luster over time with exposure to light. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; the heartwood is rated as very resistant to decay from rot, though it is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, turned bowls, flooring, veneers, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (from Eastern Canada through the United States to Mexico).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot for high-grade lumber; turned goods are valued by craftsmanship.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood is likely from a tree approximately 30-50 years old based on ring density; as a finished product, the light color suggests it is recently turned (less than 1 year).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; highly sustainable and widely available.
Workability
Excellent. It is known for being easy to machine, though it can burn easily if router bits or saws are dull. It planes, glues, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Often contains small black gum pockets (pith flecks) which are natural characteristics. It has a mild, pleasant scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (like Tung or Linseed oil) are recommended to enhance the natural darkening process. Shellac and lacquer also work well.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive pinkish-tan hue, tight grain structure, and the characteristic rough, dark, 'burnt cornflake' bark visible on the live edge are classic indicators of Prunus serotina.