American Cherry (2026)
Prunus serotina • Eastern United States
Hardwood
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American Cherry is one of the most popular domestic hardwoods for fine furniture.
Key Takeaways
- American Cherry has a Janka hardness of 950 lbf and density of 35 lbs/ft³.
- Common uses include Fine furniture, Kitchen cabinetry, Interior trim.
- Color: Light pinkish-brown to rich reddish-brown.
- Low for indoor use.
Janka Hardness
950 lbf
Density
35 lbs/ft³
Moisture
12-14%
Fire Rating
Class B
Durability
Class C - Indoor use
Price Range
$$
Color Characteristics
Light pinkish-brown to rich reddish-brown
Key Characteristics
- •Fine straight grain
- •Smooth satiny texture
- •Darkens with age
- •Easy to work
- •Excellent for finishing
- •Good stability
- •Minimal pitch
- •Can have gum pockets
Common Applications
- •Fine furniture
- •Kitchen cabinetry
- •Interior trim
- •Veneer
- •Musical instruments
- •Turning
- •Paneling
- •Decorative boxes
Maintenance Requirements
Low for indoor use.
Advantages
- Beautiful aging color
- Excellent workability
- Fine grain
- Good stability
- Premium appearance
- Takes finishes well
- Wide availability
- Classic American wood
Considerations
- Indoor only
- Darkens significantly
- Gum pockets
- Color variation
- Softer than oak
- Can be expensive
- Pale sapwood
- Not for high-wear floors
Frequently Asked Questions
Fine furniture, Kitchen cabinetry, Interior trim, Veneer, Musical instruments, Turning, Paneling, Decorative boxes.
American Cherry has a Janka hardness rating of 950 lbf, making it a moderately hard wood suitable for Fine furniture, Kitchen cabinetry, Interior trim.
American Cherry wood is Light pinkish-brown to rich reddish-brown. Fine straight grain
Low for indoor use.
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