Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight with a fine, uniform, satiny texture; sometimes shows moderate cathedral figure in flat-sawn boards. Small gummy deposits (pitch pockets) are common.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from light pinkish brown to a deeper reddish brown; sapwood is pale yellowish white. It is highly reactive to UV light and will darken significantly to a rich deep reddish-brown over time.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; however, it is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys/casings), and small specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from eastern Canada through the United States to Mexico and Guatemala.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh/processed recently. The light coloration and lack of deep oxidation suggest the board was recently surfaced and has not yet undergone significant light-aging.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable and FSC certified.
Workability
Excellent. It is known for its superb machining characteristics, easily turned and planed. Care must be taken during sanding as it burns easily with high-speed power tools. Glues and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for 'blotching' when stained due to varying density, and its remarkable color transformation over time.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear natural finishes like linseed/tung oil, shellac, or lacquer to allow the natural darkening process to occur. Blotching can be minimized with a pre-stain conditioner if staining is necessary.
Identification Confidence
High. The pinkish-tan hue, fine closed pores, visible pitch flecks/small knots, and satiny luster are classic diagnostic features of American Black Cherry.