Cherry Wood

Cherry, also known as Black Cherry or American Cherry, is a pinkish brown wood. It is usually very pale when freshly cut, but over time oxidizes, and takes on its famously rich golden-brown patina. Cherry wood is said to be imbued with earth energy. It brings about level headedness, clarity, and non-impulsiveness.

Cherry wood has a long history of use.  The Greeks and Romans were building furniture from it as early as 400 BC. Early Colonial furniture makers used it extensively, and referred to cherry wood as “New England Mohogany” due to the way its color deepens with age, similar to mahogany.

Cherry is known as being one of the best all-around woods for workability. It is a straight grained wood that is strong, fine textured, and durable. It carves well and bends easily. These properties, along with its rich color, make cherry wood extremely popular with cabinetmakers. Besides cabinetry, it is often used in fine furniture, interior millwork, flooring, turned objects, and in small specialty items.

The Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) grows in Eastern North America. It can reach heights of up to 100 feet, about 80 feet average, with a trunk diameter of 2 feet.

The Black Cherry tree has numerous uses. The fruit are made into jam and cherry pies, and have been used in the flavoring of liqueurs. They are a very popular flavoring for ice creams and sodas, and are used in cakes and as garnishes for cocktails.