American Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Fine, straight, closed grain with a smooth uniform texture. Occasional small pith flecks and gum pockets are common for this species.
Color Description
Light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a deep golden reddish brown over time with light exposure. The sapwood is typically a creamy yellowish white.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood is very resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, architectural millwork, musical instruments (small), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (largely Eastern United States and parts of Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 20-40 years since harvest based on the deep reddish-brown oxidation and surface patina visible on the cylinder.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); highly sustainable and widely available with FSC certification commonly available.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can be prone to burning if using dull router bits.
Notable Features
Features a mild, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its 'photosensitivity,' where the wood naturally deepens in color significantly within the first year of exposure to light.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for protection; however, penetrating oils (like Tung or Linseed) and shellac are preferred to highlight the depth of the grain and natural color change.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic reddish-brown oxidation, fine-closed grain texture, and the presence of small dark gum streaks on the end-grain surface are hallmarks of Prunus serotina.