Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained, fine-textured, with occasional wavy figure; shows distinct cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces as seen in the sample.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from light pinkish brown to a deeper reddish brown; sapwood is a pale yellowish white. The wood is known for its high luster and significant darkening/reddening with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay; sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, tool handles, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; the lack of deep oxidation/patina suggests it was milled within the last 1-5 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; planes and sands easily. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can burn if using dull router bits.
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant scent when being worked; known for its exceptional finishing qualities and characteristic 'cherry' reddish-brown patina that develops over time.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all finishes. Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural darkening; clear lacquer or polyurethane provide durable protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the fine, closed grain, typical salmon-pink to light brown hues, and smooth surface texture is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.