Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but can be wavy; fine, uniform texture with a moderate natural luster. Features small, dark pith flecks (gum pockets) visible as dark streaks or spots.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich red to reddish-brown; sapwood is creamy white to yellowish. It darkens significantly upon exposure to light and with age, developing a deep mahogany-like patina.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; heartwood is rated as very resistant to decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, musical instruments (mostly acoustic guitars), turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $5.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Finished product appearing 5-15 years old based on the depth of the red oxidation and surface wear scratches.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and considered highly sustainable.
Workability
Excellent for both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes well, though it can be prone to burning if saws or router bits are dull or speeds are too slow.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; known for its exceptional finishing characteristics and ability to take a high polish. Contains some natural cyanide compounds in leaves/bark, but the wood is generally safe.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance the natural darkening process; wipe-on polyurethanes or lacquer are also common for protection. Avoid heavy staining as the wood blotches easily.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the reddish-brown hue, characteristic dark gum streaks, and fine grain structure are consistent with Prunus serotina, though alder or stained maple can occasionally mimic this appearance.