American Cherry (Black Cherry)
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (primarily the Appalachian region, Pennsylvania, and New York).
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable; heartwood shows high natural resistance to decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack if exposed outdoors without treatment. Most commonly used indoors.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to slightly wavy grain with fine, uniform texture; displays subtle cathedral growth ring patterns and small dark gum pockets/flecks typical of flat-sawn cherry flooring.
Color & Appearance
Golden-brown to medium reddish-brown with a warm patina. Freshly cut cherry is pale pinkish brown but darkens with light exposure to a rich amber/red-brown. Heartwood exhibits subtle color variation between planks with moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; heartwood shows high natural resistance to decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack if exposed outdoors without treatment. Most commonly used indoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $9.50 per square foot for finished tongue-and-groove solid strip flooring ($5.00 - $8.00 per board foot for select grade lumber).
- Wood Age Estimate
- 10 to 20 years. The installation shows moderate UV exposure causing characteristic ambering/darkening, along with minor surface wear consistent with a mature residential floor.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Not CITES listed. Widely available from sustainably managed forests in Eastern North America with FSC certification readily accessible.
Common Uses
Hardwood flooring, high-end furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, turnings, veneers, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (primarily the Appalachian region, Pennsylvania, and New York).
Workability
Excellent workability with hand and power tools. Easy to plane, sand, turn, and join. May burn slightly if router bits or saw blades are dull or moving too slowly due to high resin content. Takes fasteners and glue very well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane (clear satin or semi-gloss) is ideal for flooring protection. Oil-based finishes enhance the warm reddish-golden tone, while water-based finishes preserve the lighter color longer. Blotching can occur with dark stains, so sealers or gel stains are recommended if changing color.
Notable Features
Features small dark mineral streaks and resin/gum spots. Possesses a subtle sweet scent when freshly worked. Known for its distinct darkening property under light exposure (photo-reactivity) and exceptionally smooth finished feel.
