Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained, fine-textured, with frequent narrow curly grain or small 'gum pockets' which appear as dark streaks. The sample shows a subtle cathedral / flat-sawn pattern with visible annual growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from light pinkish-brown to deep reddish-brown. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It has high luster and is famous for darkening significantly with light exposure and age into a deep mahogany-like color.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is very resistant to decay and rot, though it offers only moderate resistance to common wood-boring insects.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys, guitar backs), woodturning, and specialty small craft items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $5.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/fresh cut; the light pinkish hue suggests it hasn't undergone the significant UV oxidation/darkening seen in older reclaimed or vintage Cherry wood.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools. It machines, planes, and sands very smoothly. It glues well but can be prone to 'blotching' when stained due to its closed grain structure.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, fruity scent when worked. Often contains small black pith flecks (gum pockets). Known for its exceptional dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Natural oil or lacquer finishes are best to showcase the aging process. Gel stains are recommended if color changes are desired to avoid blotchiness. Shellac is an excellent sealer.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the specific salmon-pink hue, closed grain texture, and characteristic annual ring spacing is highly diagnostic of Prunus serotina.