Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with a fine, uniform, and satiny texture. The sample displays subtle 'curly' or wavy figure (chatoyance) visible across the drawer face, and typical small pitch pockets or gum streaks characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Heartwood is light pinkish-brown in this sample, having aged to a golden-medium brown. It exhibits a lustrous quality and light-sensitive darkening. Sapwood is yellowish-white (mostly absent here). This sample shows a warm, amber-toned patina common in finished furniture.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot and decay resistance; however, it is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, musical instruments, and small specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (select grade)
Wood Age Estimate
The wood is likely 10-25 years old based on the ambering of the finish and the depth of the color oxidation typical of Cherry furniture from the late 20th to early 21st century.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered highly sustainable and widely available from FSC certified sources.
Workability
Excellent. It is known for being one of the best woods for machining, though it can burn easily if router bits or saw blades are dull. It glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked. Known for dramatic color change (darkening) upon exposure to UV light. Contains tiny gum streaks that appear as small black pits/lines.
Finish Recommendations
Clear topcoats like lacquer or polyurethane are recommended to allow natural darkening. Oil-based finishes enhance the figure. Gel stains are often used to prevent blotching if a darker tone is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the fine-pored grain, subtle wavy figure, characteristic gum streaks, and the specific golden-brown oxidation color is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.