Prunus serotina is the species of Cherry tree native to the Appalachian region of North America. J Gibson McIlvain mainly cultivates Cherry lumber from forests in this region, particularly in Pennsylvania and the Ohio River Valley, because, over the years, we have discovered that this region produces the consistent color and grade of Cherry that our customers seek.
Characteristics of Cherry Wood
Other names used to refer to this species are black cherry, rum cherry and mountain black cherry. This species of Cherry tree typically has a trunk diameter of four to five feet, and it grows to heights of up to 100 feet.
Overall, Cherry is noted for having a warm rich appearance. However, there are noticeable differences in the color and characteristics of the heartwood (the non-living inner portion of the tree’s trunk) and the sapwood (which surrounds the heartwood, creating the outer rings of the trunk).
The color of the heartwood of Cherry is a rich reddish brown. This reddish brown heartwood will darken over time with exposure to light and air. The sapwood is typically a creamy, satiny white. Both heartwood and sapwood are used for a variety of applications, and using a combination of the two is an option that is particularly appealing to customers who are undertaking flooring projects.
Although small pitch or gum pockets may naturally occur in Cherry, this wood is known for its generally smooth texture and fine workability.
Cherry Lumber: The American Tradition
Appalachian Cherry wood has been the choice lumber of American carpenters and craftsmen for centuries because of its ideal balance of workability and strength. Cherry wood is easily cut and sanded, yet it still has enough strength to securely accommodate screws, glue and other methods of joinery.
Ease of staining is also an advantage of Cherry, as its natural qualities allow it to finish well while also accenting the natural texture of the wood.
Its versatility allows Cherry wood to be used across a wide variety of applications and industries, the most common of which include furniture, musical instruments, and luxury boat and yacht interiors.
J Gibson McIlvain continues to satisfy customers across the board by providing the best quality Cherry lumber in the industry.
