Cherry (Black Cherry)
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed, fine, and uniform. The sample shows a standard flat-sawn pattern with a small pin knot and some irregular surface texture due to the rough-cut nature of the board.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically light pinkish brown when fresh, darkening to a deep reddish brown with age and light. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. This sample shows significant oxidation and some moisture staining resulting in deep reddish-amber hues.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; moderately resistant to insects. Poor resistance to marine borers.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, turned objects, veneer, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (USA and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be seasoned reclaimed or old stock, likely several decades old (20-40 years), based on the deep amber oxidation and the weathered surface patination.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered very sustainable and widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands easily, though it is prone to burning if router bits or saw blades are dull. Excellent gluing and finishing properties.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when worked. High tannin content can cause darkening when exposed to sunlight (UV). Known for its exceptional stability and smooth texture.
Finish Recommendations
Varnish, lacquer, or polyurethane are common for protection; oil and wax (tung or linseed) are preferred to highlight the natural chatoyance and allow the wood to darken naturally over time.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the fine-grained texture, characteristic reddish-brown oxidation, specific pin-knot appearance, and the way the wood reacts to moisture (seen in the stain) is highly characteristic of Prunus serotina.