Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) or Apple/Pear (Rosaceae family)
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood resists decay well, while sapwood is prone to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Fine, smooth, diffuse-porous cross-section with subtle, straight growth rings and minor end-grain checking.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood shows a warm golden-brown to reddish-brown hue; distinct pale yellowish-white sapwood ring under dark, flaky bark with lichen growth.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood resists decay well, while sapwood is prone to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $8.00 per board foot (standard lumber value, though small raw branch logs are typically valued for turning blanks).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut to recently harvested raw branch log (under 1 year since cut), tree age approximately 15-25 years based on diameter and ring density.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and non-threatened, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Woodturning (spindles, small bowls), carved spoons, tool handles, fine furniture, and specialty accent pieces.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand tools and power tools; turns smoothly on a lathe, sands to a high polish, but prone to checking/splitting if dried too quickly with bark on.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes like Danish oil, tung oil, or boiled linseed oil enhance depth; end grain should be sealed with anchorseal or wax immediately to prevent checking.
Notable Features
Distinct reddish heartwood contrast against pale sapwood, tight dark flaky bark with lichen, characteristic sweet fruity aroma when freshly cut or worked.
