Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though susceptible to insect attack in certain environments.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture. The sample shows subtle growth ring boundaries and slight mineral streaks.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood ranges from a light pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown, while the narrow sapwood is yellowish-white. The wood has a moderate natural luster and darkens significantly to a rich, deep amber-brown patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though susceptible to insect attack in certain environments.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recently milled (1 to 5 years old), showing the characteristic initial stages of light-induced darkening.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Readily available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwood, carving, turned objects, musical instruments, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally burn during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, varnishes, shellac, and lacquers exceptionally well. Applying a light stain or conditioner can help prevent blotching on highly figured pieces.
Notable Features
Features distinctive gum pockets, pith flecks (visible as dark streaks on the face grain), and a pleasant, mild scent when freshly worked.
