WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Sweet Cherry
Prunus avium
Also known as: European Cherry, Wild Cherry, Gean
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 950 lbf (4,226 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 580 kg/m³ (36 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.58
- Type
- Hardwood
- Grain
- Usually straight, occasionally figured
- Texture
- Fine and even
- Durability
- Moderately durable
- Region
- Europe, Asia
- Sustainability
- Sustainable — Sustainable - widely cultivated for fruit and timber
Overview
Sweet Cherry is a prized European hardwood known for its elegant reddish-brown color that deepens with age and exposure to light. It is a favorite for fine furniture and cabinetry, offering a fine texture and excellent workability that rivals American Black Cherry.
Heartwood is light reddish-brown when freshly cut, darkening to a rich reddish-brown with age. Sapwood is pale cream. Density averages 580 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 950 lbf. Fine, even texture with straight grain. Moderately stable.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low to moderate - generally easy on tools
Gluing
Good gluing properties with most adhesives
Finishing
Excellent - takes stain and polish beautifully, darkens with oil
Steam Bending
Good steam bending characteristics
Scent
Mild, pleasant when worked
Assessment
Strengths
- Beautiful color that darkens with age
- Fine texture
- Good stability
- Easy to work
Weaknesses
- Moderate durability
- Sapwood susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
Fine furniture · Cabinetry · Musical instruments · Turnery · Veneer