Likely American cherry (Black cherry); alternatives include alder or birch. — Prunus serotina (alternatives: Alnus rubra, Betula spp.)

Likely American cherry (Black cherry); alternatives include alder or birch.

Prunus serotina (alternatives: Alnus rubra, Betula spp.) · Hardwood; temperate deciduous.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; temperate deciduous.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the northeastern and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
Janka approximately 950 lbf — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood offers some decay resistance, but exposed untreated wood is not highly weather-resistant and may be susceptible to insects.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine and uniform, with subtle cathedral and occasional wavy grain; appears flat-sawn. No distinctive figured pattern is visible.

Color & Appearance

Freshly surfaced wood is pale pinkish tan to light salmon with subdued luster; heartwood typically darkens substantially toward reddish brown with oxidation and light exposure, while sapwood remains paler.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka approximately 950 lbf — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood offers some decay resistance, but exposed untreated wood is not highly weather-resistant and may be susceptible to insects.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$5–12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried cherry; retail figured or premium stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from this fresh-looking, unfinished surface; it appears recently milled or lightly aged.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, architectural millwork, turning, and veneer.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the northeastern and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though tearout can occur around irregular grain and darkening may be uneven near glue or metal contact.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and use shellac, lacquer, oil, or polyurethane; a washcoat or conditioner can reduce blotching, and clear finishes emphasize the red aging.

Notable Features

Fine texture, good dimensional stability, and characteristic reddish aging; the image shows no strong scent or special figure.

Learn more about Likely American cherry (Black cherry); alternatives include alder or birch. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Likely American Cherry (Black Cherry); Alternatives Include Alder Or Birch. in the encyclopedia

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