Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with wavy cathedral patterns around knots; displays slight curl and tight, closed pores characteristic of flat-sawn fruitwood.
Color Description
Light pinkish-brown heartwood with cream-colored sapwood. Features small dark pith flecks (gum streaks). It has a medium luster and will darken significantly over time to a rich reddish-brown when exposed to UV light.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay; sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced (less than 1 year), indicated by the light pale color which has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV darkening.
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. Responds well to gluing, staining, and finishing, though it can be prone to burning if saw blades are dull or feed rates are too slow.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; contains small gum pockets that appear as dark streaks; high tannin content can cause 'blotching' if not sealed properly before staining.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on oils (boiled linseed or tung oil) to enhance natural color; clear lacquer or dewaxed shellac recommended to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the specific light salmon hue, the presence of dark gum streaks near knots, and the tight grain structure is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.