Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable. Good resistance to decay, but susceptible to insect attack in heartwood.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture and occasional gum pockets or pith flecks.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from rich reddish-brown to pinkish-brown, while sapwood is a yellowish-white. Cherry darkens significantly to a deeper amber-reddish patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable. Good resistance to decay, but susceptible to insect attack in heartwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot for domestic lumber depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh milled or recently worked lumber, likely less than 1 to 5 years old based on the minimal oxidation visible around the freshly cut miter joints.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Readily available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, musical instruments, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can blotch if not pre-conditioned before staining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, and varnish exceptionally well, which enhance its natural warm reddish tone and chatoyancy. A wood conditioner or gel stain is recommended if applying uniform dark stains to prevent blotchiness.
Notable Features
Features distinctive small dark gum pockets (visible near the knot) and fine brown pith flecks. Produces a pleasant, mild, sweet scent when freshly cut.
