Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with good resistance to decay though susceptible to insect attack if left unprotected.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with a fine, smooth texture. May display occasional random knots and slight cathedral patterns depending on the cut.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a rich medium reddish-brown that darkens significantly with age and light exposure into a deep amber-brown patina. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with good resistance to decay though susceptible to insect attack if left unprotected.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, around 5 to 15 years, showing typical light oxidation and surface patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely abundant, and readily available from sustainably managed forests in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, musical instruments, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally blotch during staining if not pre-conditioned.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, and lacquer very well. A pre-stain conditioner is recommended if applying uniform dark stains to prevent blotchiness.
Notable Features
Known for its distinct reddish color, smooth fine texture, and tendency to darken markedly over time upon exposure to UV light.
