Likely American cherry (Black Cherry); alternatives include alder or birch — Prunus serotina

Likely American cherry (Black Cherry); alternatives include alder or birch

Prunus serotina · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Appalachian and northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Hardness
Janka about 950 lbf — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable indoors; heartwood offers some decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot. Not a preferred exterior-weathering wood.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine, closed grain with occasional mild waviness and elongated cathedral patterns; appears flat-sawn/plain-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Pale pinkish-tan to warm reddish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood and darker mineral streaking. Cherry develops a deeper amber-red patina with light exposure; moderate natural luster.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka about 950 lbf — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable indoors; heartwood offers some decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot. Not a preferred exterior-weathering wood.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$6–12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried cherry; premium wide or figured stock may exceed this.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The board appears relatively fresh or lightly aged; visible oxidation and grain condition do not reliably indicate tree age or time since milling.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, architectural millwork, doors, paneling, veneers, turning, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Appalachian and northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well, though tearout can occur around reversing grain. It can burn during routing or sanding and may blotch with some stains.

Finish Recommendations

Use clear shellac, lacquer, oil, or polyurethane to preserve color; test stains carefully because uneven absorption and dark streaks can produce blotching.

Notable Features

Characteristic fine texture, warm color development, and occasional dark gum/mineral streaks; the pictured boards show attractive natural color variation.

Learn more about Likely American cherry (Black Cherry); alternatives include alder or birch in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 13, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Likely American Cherry (Black Cherry); Alternatives Include Alder Or Birch in the encyclopedia

View all →