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 if exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture and occasional random pitch pockets or light random curl.
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-brown heartwood with a pale yellowish-white sapwood. Cherry darkens significantly over time and with exposure to light, developing a deep, lustrous amber-red patina.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, but susceptible to insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot for FAS grade lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a modern kiln-dried sample, likely between 1 to 5 years since milling, showing early signs of light-induced patina development.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, musical instruments, turnings, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes and turns well, though it can burn easily if fed too slowly through a saw blade.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well. Oil-based finishes and shellac bring out the rich chatoyancy, while clear varnishes or lacquers preserve the natural amber glow.
Notable Features
Features distinctive gum pockets, fine brown pith flecks, and a smooth texture. It is prized for its rapid and dramatic aging color shift when exposed to UV light.
