European cherry
Captured from the historical species datasheet.
At a glance
Scientific namePrunus avium
Trade / common nameEuropean cherry
FamilyRosaceae
RegionEurope · Western Europe · Southern Europe · Northern Europe · Eastern Europe
Distribution
One of over a hundred species belonging to the Prunus genus, P. avium is native to Britain and is also widely distributed in the forests of Europe from Norway eastwards, and extends into western Asia. In the United Kingdom, native to regions as far north as the Scottish border, but is only commonly found as a wild tree among the Beech forests of the southeastern chalk deposits. Cherry is also reported to have been successfully cultivated by many landowners on their private lands, because of its beautiful blossoms.
Uses
Brush backs & handles, Cabinetmaking, Carvings, Chairs, Decorative veneer, Door, Furniture , Furniture, Joinery, Moldings, Musical instruments , Musical instruments, Paneling , Paneling, Plywood, Shuttles, Textile equipment, Toys, Turnery, Veneer, Veneer: decorative, Walking sticks
Countries & Distribution
These country connections come directly from the same SQL country–species bridge used by Country Detail and the Global Navigator.
Wood images
Linked historical images associated with this species record.
Projects & Inspiration
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Project images are illustrative inspiration, not species-identification photographs. Suitability should be checked against the species data and project requirements.
Fine woodworkingDecorative detailsSmall crafted objects
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Project guidance can build on this species record, its properties and documented uses.
Appearance
Heartwood color
Historical source observations are shown separately; differences may reflect source, geography, test condition or publication.
Yellow
Orange
Pale red to pink
Pale brown
Reddish brown
Greenish to greyish
Yellow to golden-yellow to orange
Brown
Reddish dark brown
Red
Darkens upon exposure
European cherry exhibits more color contrast than American black cherry (P. serotina ).
Sapwood Color
Historical source observations are shown separately; differences may reflect source, geography, test condition or publication.
Yellow
Paler than heartwood
White to yellow
Well defined
Pinkish
Luster
Low
Lustrous
Uses & Applications
Common Uses
Brush backs & handles, Cabinetmaking, Carvings, Chairs, Decorative veneer, Door, Furniture , Furniture, Joinery, Moldings, Musical instruments , Musical instruments, Paneling , Paneling, Plywood, Shuttles, Textile equipment, Toys, Turnery, Veneer, Veneer: decorative, Walking sticks
Product Sources
European cherry is available in small sizes only, but limited quantities in the form of veneers can be purchased on the European market. Price is comparable to that of medium cost hardwoods.
Full Technical Species Profile
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Protected technical content includes physical and mechanical properties, working and drying characteristics, durability data, detailed technical observations, references and methodology.