Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained, fine-textured, and uniform. The sample shows a subtle cathedral pattern (flat-sawn) and smooth, closed-pore surface with occasional small gum streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown when fresh (as seen in this raw state), which darkens significantly to a deep reddish-brown with exposure to UV light. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white and is distinctly visible on the edges of some boards. High natural luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; heartwood is very resistant to decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on width and grade (4/4 Select & Better).
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 0-2 years since milling. The light pinkish-tan color suggests it has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV darkening typical of older Cherry stock.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes and sands very smoothly. Main challenge is a tendency to burn when machined with dull blades or high router speeds due to high natural sugar content.
Notable Features
Features a mild, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its 'blotching' tendency when stained due to varying density. Contains gum pockets/streaks which are a natural characteristic of the species.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear finishes such as wipe-on poly, tung oil, or shellac to showcase natural darkening. Gel stains are recommended if color changes are desired to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the fine, closed-grain texture, the specific pinkish-tan hue of raw heartwood, and the presence of small dark gum streaks is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.