How about a light oak, like this? [houzz=]

Also, take a look at engineered Mannington Asian Plum. It comes in three stains and has a nice grain.

Thanks for your hints, appreciate it!

I'd either match your lovely cherry trim with a cherry floor (first photo) or create a contrast with a white oak floor with a medium-light stain, as Bobbi suggested (second photo). White oak is especially durable, by the way. Ours is 90 years old and still going strong.

I also would go with trying to match the trim with a cherry floor. Even if it's not perfect, some contrast is ok. I would keep the stairs in the same color wood family as well...You don't want to see 3 different floor coverings merging...