American Cherry (Black Cherry)
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral pattern with fine, closed grain and subtle wavy figure. The grain is typically straight and easy to work, though this sample shows beautiful arching growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich red-brown to golden-brown. Sapwood is a creamy yellow. This sample shows significant oxidation and light exposure, which has darkened the wood to its characteristic warm auburn patina.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood is very resistant to decay, while sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, paneling, musical instruments, and high-end veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
30 to 60 years. The deep, rich amber-red oxidation and the style of the hardware suggest a mid-20th-century vintage.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable.
Workability
Excellent. Known as one of the best woods for machining and hand tools. It sands easily and turns well, though it can be prone to burning if router bits are dull or speeds are too high.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked. Known for photosensitivity (darkening rapidly in sunlight). It has great dimensional stability once dried.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or shellac are recommended to highlight the natural chatoyance and grain depth. Takes stain well, though often left natural to allow for traditional darkening.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of fine pore structure, distinct reddish-gold patina, and the specific cathedral grain pattern is diagnostic of Prunus serotina in furniture applications.