Cherry wood has long been prized by woodworkers and furniture makers for its unique beauty, durability, and workability. From its rich color that deepens over time to its silky-smooth texture, cherry wood is a material that truly ages like fine wine. But beyond its physical properties, cherry wood carries deep cultural symbolism—particularly in Japan, where the cherry tree represents love, purity, and commitment.

In this article, we’ll explore why cherry wood is so beloved, its cultural significance, and how it compares to other popular hardwoods. Whether you’re a woodworker, an interior designer, or simply someone who appreciates fine furniture and home decor, cherry wood is a material worth knowing.

Why Is Cherry Wood So Popular?

There’s no denying that cherry wood has a timeless appeal. One of its standout characteristics is its ability to age beautifully. When freshly cut, cherry wood has a light pinkish-brown hue, but as it’s exposed to sunlight and air, it gradually darkens into a rich, reddish-brown with a deep, glowing patina. This natural aging process makes each piece of cherry wood furniture or home decor item unique, evolving with time and adding a vintage charm to any space.

Like many woodworkers, I also love working with cherry because of its smooth grain and fine texture. It’s relatively easy to work with, sands well, and takes stain and finish beautifully, though many prefer to showcase its natural color. From intricate carvings to minimalist designs, cherry wood offers versatility in design that’s hard to match.

The Symbolism and Significance of Cherry Trees

Cherry trees hold special significance in many cultures. In Japan, they are revered for their beauty and are often associated with love, purity, and commitment—qualities that make them a popular choice for weddings and other important ceremonies. The fleeting bloom of cherry blossoms each spring is also a symbol of the transient nature of life, adding a poetic layer of meaning to the wood itself.

In the U.S., cherry trees are celebrated for their vibrant springtime blossoms, particularly in Washington D.C., where the National Cherry Blossom Festival draws millions of visitors each year. The cherry trees lining the Tidal Basin were a gift from Japan in 1912, symbolizing friendship between the two nations. (Watch for my February blog which list list 15 amazing places to see cherry blossoms)

Interesting Facts About Cherry Wood

Cherry wood, specifically American Black Cherry (Prunus serotina), is one of the most sought-after hardwoods in North America. Here are some interesting facts that highlight its uniqueness:

• Sustainability: Cherry trees grow relatively quickly compared to other hardwoods, making them a more sustainable option for furniture makers concerned about the environment.

• Aging: As mentioned, cherry wood darkens over time. This is due to a natural oxidation process, which gives cherry wood furniture an ever-changing appearance that only improves with age.

• Distinct Grain Pattern: The grain of cherry wood is often smooth and straight, but it can sometimes feature wavy or curly grain patterns, adding visual interest to each piece.

• American Black Cherry: While there are different types of cherry trees around the world, American Black Cherry is most commonly used in woodworking for its durability, fine grain, and rich color.

The Pros and Cons of Cherry Wood

Pros:

• Beautiful Appearance: Cherry wood’s natural grain and deepening color make it one of the most visually appealing hardwoods available.

• Workability: Cherry wood is easy to cut, shape, and sand, making it a favorite for both amateur and professional woodworkers.

• Aging Gracefully: Unlike some woods that fade over time, cherry wood grows richer and more vibrant as it ages, adding value and character to the furniture or cabinetry made from it.

• Smooth Finish: The tight, fine grain of cherry wood allows for a smooth, sleek finish without the need for heavy sanding or finishing.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: Cherry wood tends to be more expensive than other domestic hardwoods, like maple or oak, due to its popularity and slower growth rate.

• Denting and Scratching: Though cherry wood is durable, it is softer than some hardwoods, making it prone to dents and scratches if not properly cared for.

• Color Change: While the darkening of cherry wood is often considered an advantage, some homeowners might find it challenging to match new cherry wood furniture with existing pieces due to the change in color over time.

Best Uses for Cherry Wood

Cherry wood’s beauty and versatility make it a popular choice for a variety of applications, including:

• Furniture and Home Decor: From high-end dining tables to bowls and vases, cherry wood is often used for heirloom-quality furniture and home decor that’s passed down through generations.

• Cabinetry: Its fine grain and smooth finish make cherry wood a popular choice for kitchen cabinetry, especially in traditional and transitional-style homes.

• Musical Instruments: Cherry wood is sometimes used in the construction of guitars and other musical instruments, prized for its warm tone and rich appearance.

• Decorative Woodworking: Cherry is ideal for intricate carvings, veneer work, and high-end millwork due to its ease of workability and smooth surface.

How Cherry Wood Differs from Other Hardwoods

When compared to other popular hardwoods like oak, mahogany, and maple, cherry wood holds its own in several categories:

• Appearance: Cherry wood has a distinctive reddish-brown color that sets it apart from lighter woods like maple or more golden-hued woods like oak. Its grain is also smoother and less porous than that of oak.

• Durability: While not as hard as maple or oak, cherry wood still offers good durability for most furniture applications. It’s softer than mahogany but ages better due to its rich, evolving color.

• Workability: Cherry wood is easier to work with than denser woods like oak or mahogany, making it a favorite among woodworkers for intricate projects.

• Cost: Cherry wood tends to be pricier than domestic hardwoods like oak and maple, but less expensive than exotic hardwoods like mahogany or teak.

Cherry Wood’s Timeless Appeal

Cherry wood continues to captivate woodworkers and homeowners alike with its unique beauty, durability, and cultural significance. Whether you’re looking for a material to create timeless furniture pieces or simply appreciate its rich symbolism, cherry wood offers a connection to nature and craftsmanship that few other woods can match.

Learn more about the different cherry tree species from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Sources:

Photo by Brett Sayles: https://www.pexels.com/photo/pink-petaled-flowers-closeup-photo-992734/

Photo by Evgeny Tchebotarev: https://www.pexels.com/photo/concrete-temple-2235308/