Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; good resistance to decay, though susceptible to certain wood-boring insects.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with a fine, smooth texture. May occasionally feature slight waviness or irregular patterns.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown when freshly cut, darkening to a deep rich reddish-brown with exposure to light and age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; good resistance to decay, though susceptible to certain wood-boring insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.50 to 8.50 USD per board foot for lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Living tree sample, estimated young sapling/pole stage approximately 15-25 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant in North America, not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists, widely available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, turning, musical instruments, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though can blotch during staining if not properly conditioned.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Pre-stain conditioner recommended prior to applying stains to prevent blotchiness.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic scent when freshly cut, smooth reddish-brown bark with prominent horizontal lenticels on younger trees developing into dark scaly plates on older trees.
