Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained and easy to work; occasionally can be wavy or curly. The end grain shows semi-ring-porous structure with distinct growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish brown with time and exposure to light. Sapwood is a pale yellowish white. It has a satiny luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; however, sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, fine furniture, flooring, interior millwork, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot (lumber grade dependent)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly felled log (less than 1 month); growth rings suggest a tree age of approximately 40-60 years based on diameter and ring density.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably through FSC certifications.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes well. One challenge is that it can burn during high-speed routing if cutters are dull.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, aromatic scent when being worked. Known for containing small pitch pockets (gum streaks) which are a natural characteristic. High stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; oil-based finishes are popular to enhance the natural darkening process and depth of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-brown tint of the exposed heartwood, the characteristic dark, 'burnt-potato-chip' flaky bark visible in the background logs, and the semi-ring-porous end grain are classic indicators of Prunus serotina.