Handling & safety. Wood dust can cause irritation/sensitization in some people; standard precautions
Properties
| Latin name | Prunus avium |
|---|---|
| Species type | Hardwood |
| Origin | Native across much of Europe and western Asia; grown and harvested in the UK and Europe |
| Density | 580 kg/m³ |
| Janka hardness | 4,200 N |
| Modulus of rupture | 85 MPa |
| Elastic modulus | 10.5 GPa |
| Crushing strength | 45 MPa |
| Specific gravity | 0.5 |
| Porosity | Diffuse-porous |
| Tangential shrinkage | 7.1% |
| Radial shrinkage | 3.7% |
| Volumetric shrinkage | 11.2% |
| T/R ratio | 1.9 |
| Durability (EN 350) | Class 3 |
Density and mechanical properties are typical values at around 12% moisture content. Shrinkage figures represent total dimensional change from fibre saturation to oven dry. Individual boards vary.
Description
Anatomy
- Porosity: Diffuse-Porous
- Vessel Arrangement: Diffuse-porous; pores solitary and in small multiples
- Vessel Description: Small-to-medium pores; fairly even distribution
- Parenchyma: Fine parenchyma, usually subtle; may appear as faint lines with lens
- Rays: Fine rays; not very conspicuous
Durability
- Durability Class: Class 3 — Moderately Durable
Moderately durable heartwood, but an interior timber; not for outdoor use untreated
Odor
Mild; sometimes sweet when freshly cut
Uses & Availability
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior joinery, veneer, turned items, musical applications (selected stock)
Pricing & Availability
Available in Europe; generally mid to premium price depending on quality and width; veneer common
Conservation
- CITES Status: Unlisted
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Lookalikes & Substitutes
Black cherry (Prunus serotina) and other cherry species; alder as a lower-cost visual substitute
Additional Sources
European timber merchant datasheets; forestry species accounts; woodworking references
Working the timber
Machines very well; stable; good for carving and turning; can burn with dull cutters; takes detail cleanly
Finishing & gluing
Finishes beautifully; clear finishes enhance color; stains can be used but often unnecessary
Generally glues well