Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed, straight grain with significant cathedral figure visible in the flat-sawn face; features fine, uniform texture and occasional small pith flecks or gum pockets.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown in this fresh state, which will darken to a deep reddish-brown with age and UV exposure. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. Shows a satiny luster.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
The heartwood is rated as very durable and resistant to decay, though it is not particularly resistant to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys), and specialty turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/freshly milled. The light pinkish hue suggests it has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV darkening typical of older cherry boards.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally managed sustainably through FSC certifications.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and sands very well. The main challenge is a tendency to burn when machined with dull blades or high router speeds due to high natural sugar content.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked. Known for dramatic darkening over time. Contains small dark 'gum streaks' which are natural characteristics of the species.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though it is prone to blotching if not sealed first. An oil-based finish or shellac is recommended to enhance the natural chatoyance and color depth.
Identification Confidence
High. The pinkish-tan color combined with the specific cathedral grain arches and the presence of small dark gum pockets are classic diagnostic features of Prunus serotina.