Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (primarily Appalachian region and Northeastern United States)
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; good resistance to rot, though susceptible to insect attack if exposed
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight fine grain with slight cathedral figure on flat-sawn drawer fronts and subtle wave/curl visible under amber finish
Color & Appearance
Rich golden to reddish-brown heartwood with characteristic warm amber patina; sapwood is lighter yellowish-white, though mostly heartwood is shown with age-darkened luster
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; good resistance to rot, though susceptible to insect attack if exposed
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot for Select & Better lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 40-70 years old (mid-20th century vintage furniture piece, indicated by construction style, wooden turned knobs, and aged patina)
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List), not CITES listed, widely available from sustainably managed FSC-certified forests in North America
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, turnings, interior trim, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (primarily Appalachian region and Northeastern United States)
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; machines smoothly, glues and sands well, though can burn easily if router or saw blades are dull
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on varnish, shellac, clear lacquer, or hand-rubbed oil (such as Danish oil or linseed oil) to enhance natural chatoyance and warm color depth
Notable Features
Smooth fine texture, distinct faint sweet scent when worked, develops a highly prized deep reddish-amber patina with UV exposure and age, occasional small gum pockets
