Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained, fine-textured, with frequent cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces. This sample shows wavy cathedral patterns with occasional small pith flecks or gum pockets.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish brown with time and light exposure. Luster is high. Sapwood is a pale yellowish cream.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay, though it is not particularly resistant to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, architectural millwork, paneling, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be modern dimensional lumber, likely harvested and processed within the last 5-10 years, showing slight oxidation consistent with recent installation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent. It is known for its easy machining, though pieces with figured grain can experience tearout. It glues, stains, and finishes very well, though sapwood requires careful color matching.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; characteristic small black gum pockets (pith flecks) are common; has a high photo-reactive quality that causes it to darken significantly in UV light.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping oils (like linseed or tung oil) and shellac are excellent for enhancing the natural color. Polyurethane is recommended for high-wear areas like table tops.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive salmon-pink hue, closed grain structure, cathedral pattern, and characteristic small gum pockets are hallmarks of Prunus serotina.