Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained, fine and uniform texture. This particular live-edge slab shows a flat-sawn face with subtle cathedral layering and some minor pitch pockets or gum streaks typical of the species.
Color Description
Freshly cut heartwood is a light pinkish brown, darkening to a medium reddish brown with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. This sample shows a warm tan-pink hue characteristic of partially aged cherry.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot for live-edge slabs depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be from a relatively recent harvest (within 1-3 years) based on the presence of intact bark and the light color of the face, which hasn't yet fully darkened to its deep patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes well. The main challenge is a tendency to scorch or burn when machined with dull cutters or high router speeds.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet scent when being worked; contains small gum streaks (mineral deposits) which are a natural characteristic and not a defect. High levels of chatoyance when finished.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) are highly recommended to bring out the warmth and facilitate natural darkening. Needs careful sanding to prevent blotching if using pigment stains; a pre-stain conditioner is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the thin, flaky dark bark (typical of mature Prunus serotina), the light reddish-tan heartwood, and the specific grain texture is characteristic of wild black cherry.