Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained, fine and even texture with a moderate natural luster. Occasional wavy or curly patterns may occur; features distinct growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish brown with time and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish white. Often contains small black gum pockets (pith flecks).
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay, though it is not particularly resistant to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, musical instruments, turned objects, and high-end interior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (largely Eastern United States and parts of Canada and Mexico).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled/Contemporary; shows minimal oxidation (still light in color) and sharp mechanical edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools. It machines, planes, and sands very well, though it can burn if tools are dull or feed speeds are too slow.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; contains small gum streaks which are a characteristic identifier; known for photographic darkening (patina) over time.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well. Often finished with oil-based varnishes or shellac to enhance the natural reddish tones; can be blotchy if stained without a pre-conditioner.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of salmon-pinkish hue, fine grain texture, narrow growth rings, and characteristic gum pockets is definitive for North American Black Cherry.