Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight-grained with a fine, uniform, satiny texture. Occasional wavy or curly figure and small gum pockets visible as dark streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is light pinkish brown when fresh, darkening to a deep reddish brown with age and light exposure; sapwood is pale yellowish white. High natural luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood rot resistance; however, susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys), and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh cut or recently surfaced; the light tan/pinkish hue suggests it has not yet undergone significant UV-induced darkening (patina).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to gluing, sanding, and finishing. Caution: can be prone to burning if saws or router bits are dull.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, sweet scent when being worked. Known for developng a rich patina over time. Contains small dark gum streaks that are a natural characteristic.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) beautifully enhance the deepening color; clear lacquers or shellac are also excellent. Avoid heavy stains to allow natural darkening.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of reddish-tan heartwood, fine diffuse-porous vessels, and small gum streaks is diagnostic for Prunus serotina.