Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform, satiny texture. Features flat-sawn cathedral patterns and characteristic small dark gum streaks known as pitch pockets.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich red to reddish brown. Sapwood is creamy white to light yellowish. The wood is highly photosensitive and will darken significantly to a deep reddish-brown patina with exposure to light.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; heartwood is very resistant to decay and moderately resistant to insect attack, though sapwood is susceptible.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and figure
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber; the light color suggests it has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV-induced darkening, likely cut within the last 6-12 months.
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. It planes, glues, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can burn if router bits or saw blades are dull or if feed rates are too slow.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its exceptional finishing properties and the presence of small pith flecks or gum pockets which are considered natural characteristics rather than defects.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are recommended to enhance the natural color deepening. Wiping varnish or shellac also works well. Surface should be sanded to a high grit for a satiny luster.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of reddish-brown heartwood, distinct creamy sapwood transition, fine grain texture, and characteristic gum streaks is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.