Character Cherry Wood Guide 2026
Prunus serotina
Typically described as cherry with natural character marks
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 35 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Rustic furniture, Cabinetry, Flooring
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Smooth and fine texture with a tight grain pattern.
Workability: Excellent machining properties and easy to turn.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Stains evenly but can be blotchy if not sealed properly.
Color change: Darkens significantly to a rich reddish-brown patina upon exposure to light.
Insect resistance: Susceptible to common wood-boring insects.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Character Cherry. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 3 to 10 inch ranges.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
Availability notes: Widely available in the domestic hardwood market with rustic knots and inclusions.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Reddish brown; darkens
Grain: Straight; fine texture
Common Uses
- Rustic furniture
- Cabinetry
- Flooring
- Millwork
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Black Cherry with knots;Rustic Cherry
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 950 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Moderately Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Character Cherry is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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