Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight with a fine, even, and smooth texture. It often exhibits a slight figure or curl and can contain small pith flecks or gum pockets.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish-brown with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It has a satiny luster and displays distinct chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; however, it is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (from Eastern Canada to Florida and west to the Midwest).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Estimated at $5.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade (Select and Better).
Wood Age Estimate
Likely from a modern milling (1-5 years old) based on the uniform sanding and light oxidation level visible on the surface.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification often available.
Workability
Excellent. It is known as one of the best woods for machining; it planes, glues, and nails well. It may burn easily if using dull router bits or saw blades.
Notable Features
Features a mild, pleasant scent when worked. It is prone to blotching when stained due to its fine pores, necessitating a wood conditioner.
Finish Recommendations
Best finished with oil-based varnishes or clear oils (like Tung or Danish oil) to highlight the natural darkening process; shellac and lacquer also produce excellent results.
Identification Confidence
High. The fine, diffuse-porous grain structure, characteristic light reddish-tan color, and satiny texture are hallmark indicators of Black Cherry (Prunus serotina).