AMERICAN CHERRY
Family: Rosaceae

Commercial Names:
Black cherry (Canada and USA); cabinet cherry (USA).

Distribution:
In small quantities or scattered trees in deciduous forest areas in Canada and USA.

General Description:
Straight close grain with narrow brown pith flecks and small gum pockets, and with a smooth texture.

Color:
Heartwood varies from rich red to reddish-brown.

Weight:
Averages 580 kg/m3 (36 lb/ft3).

Specific Gravity:
.58.

Mechanical Properties:
•  Bending strength – Good
•  Crushing strength – Medium
•  Stiffness – Low
•  Resistance shock loads – Medium

Seasoning:
Dries fairly rapidly, with little degrade if care is taken to avoid a moderately large amount of shrinkage during seasoning. There is medium movement in service.

Working properties:
The wood works easily with both hand and power tools with only moderate blunting effect on cutting edges. It nails, glues, stains and takes an excellent polish.

Durability:
Sapwood is liable to attack by common furniture beetle, and heartwood moderately resistant to preservative treatment. The wood is moderately durable.

Uses:
•  Pattern making
•  Tobacco pipes
•  Musical instruments
•  Furniture and cabinetmaking
•  High-class joinery
•  Boat interiors
•  Backing blocks for mounting printing plates