Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight-grained with a fine, uniform, and satiny texture; features slight cathedral peaks and small, dark gum streaks typical of the species.
Color Description
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with a lustrous sheen. It appears to have been stained to achieve a deeper mahogany hue. Cherry is known for darkening significantly with light exposure, developing a rich patina over time.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay, though it is not typically used for outdoor applications where insect resistance is critical.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, millwork, flooring, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from eastern Canada to the southern United States and Mexico.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
10-25 years based on the standard residential construction style, finish wear, and the developed depth of the reddish-brown patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered a highly sustainable domestic hardwood.
Workability
Excellent for machining and hand tools; it planes and sands to a very smooth finish. It can be prone to blotching when staining, requiring a sealer or conditioner.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when worked; contains small pitch/gum pockets that appear as tiny black specks or streaks; excellent stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based polyurethane or lacquer to highlight natural luster. Clear coats are preferred, as the wood naturally darkens beautifully without heavy pigments.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the fine grain structure, visible gum pockets, and characteristic reddish-brown oxidation in a handrail application strongly indicate Cherry, though a heavy finish/stain can mask some specific grain identifiers.