Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood is rated as resistant to decay, though vulnerable to some insect attacks.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy with a distinct flat-sawn cathedral grain pattern on the face, featuring characteristic dark gum pockets.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown that darkens significantly with age and light exposure to a rich amber-brown. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood is rated as resistant to decay, though vulnerable to some insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh to moderately aged (likely harvested within the last few years, showing initial stages of patina development).
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern according to the IUCN; widely available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, paneling, flooring, musical instruments, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can burn easily during routing or cutting if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, varnish, and polyurethane exceptionally well, deepening its warm reddish-brown hue over time.
Notable Features
Characterized by distinctive pitch flecks (gum pockets) which appear as dark streaks, and a pleasant, faint aromatic scent when freshly cut.
