Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; good resistance to decay, though vulnerable to certain insects
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture and distinct flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from rich reddish-brown to a deeper pinkish-brown, while the narrow sapwood is pale yellowish-white. Exhibits a natural golden luster and darkens significantly to a deep, warm amber-brown patina with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; good resistance to decay, though vulnerable to certain insects
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent milled lumber, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on fresh surface oxidation and minimal patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed in North American forests
Common Uses
Fine furniture, architectural millwork, cabinetry, musical instruments, turnings, and carving
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally burn during routing or cutting if feed rates are too slow
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear oil finishes, shellac, and varnishes wonderfully; often finished with a light oil or water-based polyurethane to allow the natural darkening and rich reddish patina to develop gracefully over time
Notable Features
Features characteristic dark pith flecks and occasional small gum pockets; machines to a very smooth, satiny finish with minimal tearing
