Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and closed grain. The sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern toward the top and becomes more rift-sawn toward the bottom. Occasional small gum pockets (dark streaks) are visible.
Color Description
Heartwood is currently a light pinkish brown. Sapwood is creamy white/yellow. Cherry is known for light-induced darkening, meaning it will age to a deep reddish-brown mahogany color over time. Low to medium luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; however, sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Moderately resistant to decay.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments (mostly backs and sides), and small turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Canada and the United States)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to slightly aged (less than 1 year). The light color indicates it hasn't experienced significant UV oxidation or patina development.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable and well-managed in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and nails well. The main challenge is a tendency to burn when machined with dull blades or high router speeds.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, sweet scent when being worked. Known for its 'blotching' behavior when stained and its dramatic darkening under sunlight exposure.
Finish Recommendations
Responds best to clear natural oils (Linseed or Tung) or shellac to highlight the grain and allow for natural darkening. Gel stains are recommended if color matching is needed to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of fine, closed grain, specific salmon-pink hue, cathedral growth rings, and characteristic dark gum streaks are signature traits of North American Black Cherry.