Black Cherry
Quick Facts:
Common Name’s: Black cherry, American cherry
Scientific Name: Prunus Serotina
Tree size in length: 50-100 feet/15-30 meter
Tree size in diameter: 3-5 feet/30-60 cm
Average dried weight: 35 lbs per cubic ft/ 560 kg per cubic meter
Shrinkage radial: 3.7%
Shrinkage tangential: 7.1%
Shrinkage volumetric: 11.5%
Odor: Has a mild, distinctive scent when being worked
Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and is reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern.
General Info:
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish brown with time and upon exposure to light. Wide sapwood is a pale yellowish color. It is not uncommon for boards to contain at least some sapwood portions along the outer edges.
Grain/Texture:
The grain is usually straight with the exception of figured pieces with curly grain patterns. Has a fine, even texture with moderate natural luster.
Workability:
Black cherry is known as being one of the best all-around woods for workability. It is stable, straight-grained, and machines well. The only difficulties typically arise if the wood is being stained, as it can sometimes give blotchy results—using a sanding sealer prior to staining, or using a gel-based stain is recommended. Sapwood is common, and may contribute to a high wastage factor.
Notes/Comments:
Black cherry develops a rich reddish-brown patina as it ages that’s frequently imitated with wood stains on other hardwoods. This aging process can be accelerated by exposing the wood to direct sunlight.
