Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Typically straight with a fine, even, satiny texture. Features characteristic cathedral patterns from flat-sawing and scattered small pith flecks or gum pockets as visible in the lower portion of the board.
Color Description
Light pinkish-brown heartwood and creamy-white sapwood. Cherry is famous for its high luster and dramatic darkening to a rich reddish-brown with exposure to light (photoreactive patina) and age.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; however, it is susceptible to being attacked by insects. Non-durable sapwood.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys/casework), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (USA and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local market.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (less than 1 year). The light pinkish-tan color suggests it hasn't yet undergone extensive UV-induced darkening common in older Cherry.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely considered very sustainable and abundant in North America. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Excellent. One of the best woods for both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, and carves well, though it can burn easily if router bits are dull or feed speeds are too slow due to high sugar content.
Notable Features
Features a mild, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its 'gum spots' (small black streaks) which are natural mineral deposits. It has high dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping oil or shellac is highly recommended to bring out its natural chatoyance. Can be blotchy when stained; a wash coat of shellac or a pre-stain conditioner is recommended if using pigments.
Identification Confidence
High. The subtle pink hue, fine closed-grain structure, characteristic cathedral arches, and small gum-pocket identifiers are classic hallmarks of North American Black Cherry.