Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly irregular with a fine, uniform texture. The face grain shows typical cathedral arching from flat-sawing, along with characteristic subtle mineral flecks and small pitch pockets.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a rich light reddish-brown to a deeper medium brown, while the narrow sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. The wood has a moderate natural luster and darkens significantly to a deep, rich reddish-brown patina upon exposure to light over time.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 5.00 to 9.00 USD per board foot (depending on grade and width)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent lumber, likely harvested and milled within the last few years, showing fresh surfaces with minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely abundant and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, paneling, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally excellent workability. It machines well, glues, turns, and finishes easily, though plain-sawn surfaces can sometimes be prone to slight burning if fed too slowly through power tools.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well. Oil-based finishes or light wiping varnishes highlight the rich natural color and promote the development of its classic aged patina.
Notable Features
Features distinct dark pith flecks (caused by the larvae of peach tree borers) and occasional small gum pockets. It has a pleasant, mild scent when freshly cut and possesses great dimensional stability once dry.
