Black Cherry (American Cherry)
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (primarily the Appalachian region and northeastern US).
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight fine grain with slight subtle waves and fine uniform texture; flat-sawn slab showing live-edge bark.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a warm golden to reddish-brown that darkens significantly with age and light exposure; sapwood is yellowish-white to pale cream.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot for live-edge rough-sawn lumber depending on width and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn slab aged approximately 1-5 years post-milling, based on surface oxidation, rough saw marks, and dried thick outer bark.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern, not CITES listed. Widely available, sustainably harvested in North America, FSC-certified options abundant.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, turnings, musical instruments, veneer, live-edge slab tables.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (primarily the Appalachian region and northeastern US).
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and power tools; machines smooth, glues well, turns cleanly, though cross-grain planing requires sharp blades to avoid tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on oil finishes (tung oil, Danish oil) highlight rich natural tones; clear polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac protect well without yellowing unnaturally.
Notable Features
Distinct pleasant sweet scent when worked; darkens gracefully with light exposure; high dimensional stability once dry; may contain small gum pockets or pitch flecks.
