Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture; flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral patterns and small, characteristic pith flecks (gum pockets).
Color Description
Heartwood varies from light pinkish brown to a deeper reddish brown. Sapwood is a pale yellowish white. It is highly photorealistic, darkening significantly to a deep reddish-brown patina when exposed to light over time.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable heartwood regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turned objects, small specialty wood items, and musical instruments (primarily acoustic guitars).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (from eastern Canada through the eastern United States to Mexico and Guatemala).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample (less than 5 years). The surface shows minimal oxidation and retains a lighter pinkish hue rather than the deep burnished red of aged cherry.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and sands very well. However, it is prone to burning during machining if blades are dull or feed rates are too slow.
Notable Features
Features a mild, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its exceptional finishing qualities and 'blotching' tendencies if not sealed properly before staining.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on oil (tung or linseed) or shellac to enhance the natural chatoyancy; clear lacquer or polyurethane for protection. Avoid heavy stains to allow natural darkening.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the warm reddish-pink hue, closed-pore structure, and the presence of small dark gum streaks is diagnostic of Prunus serotina.