Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, with a fine, uniform, satiny texture. Occasional wavy or curly grain patterns may be present. The sample shows typical cathedral grain and some small gum streaks which are characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from rich red to reddish brown, darkening significantly with age and light exposure. The sample displays a medium reddish-brown patina. Sapwood is typically a creamy white/yellow, though not clearly distinguished in this finished piece.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay, though it is not as resistant to insect attack as some other durable woods.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys/casings), and small turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from eastern Canada throughout the eastern United States to the Gulf of Mexico.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width; figured boards command higher prices.
Wood Age Estimate
The piece appears to be 30-50 years old based on the depth of the oxidation patina and the style of the finish wear and water damage.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally considered very sustainable with widespread FSC availability.
Workability
Excellent workability. One of the best woods for machining: it planes and sands smoothly. It turns and glues well. The only challenge is a tendency to burn on saws or routers if blades are dull or feed rates are too slow.
Notable Features
Features a distinct faint, sweet scent when being worked. Known for its 'photosensitivity,' meaning it darkens rapidly when exposed to sunlight. Contains small dark gum spots or flecks which are a natural characteristic.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear finishes like oil-based polyurethane or lacquer to highlight natural color. Responds well to shellac. Can be difficult to stain evenly due to its tight grain; a sanding sealer or wash coat is recommended if staining.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the reddish-brown oxidation, fine closed-grain texture, presence of visible gum streaks, and the specific way the wood has worn and reacted to moisture (the white ring) is classic for North American Black Cherry.