Trade Names
Cherry, American Cherry, Black Cherry
Latin Names
Prunus serotina
Similar to
European Cherry, French Cherry
Origin
North America
Range
Northeastern halves of Canada and USA as well as south to Florida and Texas. Cultivated to some extent in Europe. However, only the trees from the growing areas in Northeastern USA and possibly Canada are significant for veneer production. Northern Pennsylvania is best known growing region.
Uses
Very good sliced veneer for faces. As lumber it is preferred for architectural panels and furniture. Good qualities are always in demand. However, due to this heavy demand it is becoming more and more difficult to find American Black Cherry in good qualities. It is also very much sought after as lumber.
Properties
The color of the heartwood is orange-reddish to reddish-brown with a satiny finish. Unlike the European Cherry the wood darkens considerably. This is why the European Cherry is considerably more select and purer in color than the American Black Cherry. Numbering amongst the natural features of Cherry are gum pockets, black gummy deposits in the annual rings (a frequently occurring feature) as well as pin knots (tight-grown, small knots).
Machining
As a general rule machining operations present no difficulties. Molding can also be carried out cleanly without any remachining or surface treatment being necessary.
Seasoning
The wood can be dried relatively quickly without any great difficulty.
Finishing
Cherry is a wood that can be treated very well by all methods. Quick darkening is prevented by using light protective varnishes.
Jointing
Cherry can be glued without difficulty. Screw and nail joints hold well but should be pre-drilled.