Prunus avium
Family: Rosaceae
Commercial names: Gean, Wild Cherry, Mazzard, Fruit Cherry (UK).
Other names: Merisier (France); Kers (Netherlands); Kirsche (Germany).
Distribution: Europe, including UK, Scandinavia, W. Asia and N. Africa. |
General Description: The heartwood is pale pinkish-brown, straight
grained, and has a fairly fine, even texture. A distinctive green streak
often occurs running with the grain. Weight about 610 kg/m3 (38 lb/ft3);
specific gravity 0.61.
Mechanical Properties: The timber has a very good wood bending
classification, with medium bending and crushing strength, also medium
shock resistance but low stiffness ratings. Its strength properties are
similar to Oak.
Working Properties: There is a moderate blunting effect on cutting
edges and straight grained material finishes very well. However, a cutting
angle of 20° should be used on cross-grained material which tends to tear.
The wood nails, glues and stains well and can be brought to an excellent
finish.
Durability: The sapwood is liable to attack from the common
furniture beetle, but the wood is almost immune from attack by powder post
beetle. The heartwood is moderately durable and resistant to preservative
treatment.
Uses: Generally used in small sections due to its tendency to warp.
Cabinet making and furniture, panelling and decorative joinery. It is
excellent for turning and is used for domestic ware, shuttle pins, toys
and parts of musical instruments.
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