Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Fine, uniform, straight-to-slightly-wavy grain with a smooth texture and subtle irregular pattern features.
Color & Appearance
Rich golden-brown to medium reddish-brown heartwood with a pale yellowish sapwood, notable for darkening significantly to a deep amber-red patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, likely between 5 to 20 years based on the developing warm amber patina and surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, paneling, flooring, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally blotch during staining if not properly prepared with a conditioner.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and varnish exceptionally well; a pre-color conditioner or gel stain is recommended to achieve an even color tone.
Notable Features
Features characteristic gum pockets and tiny dark pith flecks, moderate weight, and a pleasant, subtle scent when freshly cut.
