Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained and easy to work. It exhibits a fine, uniform, satiny texture with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible in the center, alongside some subtle wavy or curly figure.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from a light pinkish brown when freshly cut to a medium reddish brown with a golden luster as it ages; sapwood is pale yellowish. This sample shows significant darkening due to UV exposure and oxidation, typical of older cherry furniture.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; heartwood is rated as very resistant to decay, though the sapwood is susceptible to common furniture beetles.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, interior trim, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on width and figure
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 40-70 years old. The deep reddish-brown patina and the style of the finish wear suggest mid-20th century construction; the ink markings also indicate industrial batching consistent with that era.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably throughout its range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes and sands very smooth, though it is prone to burning if saw blades are dull or feed speeds are too slow. It glues and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked. Known for its dramatic color change over time and high levels of chatoyance (luster) under clear finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear reactive oils (tung or linseed) or shellac to highlight the natural color change; lacquer and polyurethane are also common for protection. Avoid heavy stains which can appear blotchy.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the fine pore structure, tight grain, distinctive reddish-brown oxidized color, and the presence of small 'gum streaks' or dark pits is characteristic of Prunus serotina.