Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with fine, uniform, and satiny texture; features prominent growth rings and occasional small dark gum streaks or pitch pockets as seen in the bowl interior
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich pinkish-red to reddish-brown, with creamy yellow sapwood; features high luster and a characteristic darkening to a deep reddish-brown patina over time with UV exposure
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; moderately resistant to rot and insect attack
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, turned bowls, flooring, veneer, musical instruments, and high-end joinery
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada), with major commercial regions in Pennsylvania and the Appalachian Mountains
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $10.00 per board foot for select grade lumber
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears relatively young or recently finished, showing the characteristic golden-pink of fresh-to-moderately aged cherry rather than the deep mahogany-red of antique pieces
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available with FSC certification
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools; planes smoothly, glues well, and takes a high polish, though it can burn easily if router bits or saw blades are dull
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; contains natural antioxidants; famous for its photographic sensitivity to light and prominent gum pockets
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance natural chatoyance; shellac or lacquer are also excellent. Gel stains are recommended if color matching is needed to prevent blotching
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish hue combined with fine texture, small gum streaks, and the specific way the end-grain grain curves in the turning are diagnostic of Prunus serotina