Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Distinct growth rings visible on end grain blocks, varying from straight to slightly wavy patterns depending on the individual block orientation within the butcher block assembly.
Color & Appearance
Characterized by a striking contrast between the pale yellowish-white sapwood and the rich, reddish-brown to deep purple heartwood, showing typical oxidation with a slightly muted luster on the unfinished end-grain surface.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for lumber, higher when assembled as a finished end-grain butcher block.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled and assembled into a modern butcher block surface, estimated at less than 1 to 5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists of threatened species. Abundant and sustainable.
Common Uses
End-grain cutting boards, chests, closet lining, fencing, outdoor furniture, small turned items, and rustic construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can sometimes cause minor tearing. Glues and finishes well, but high natural oil content can occasionally affect certain finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Food-safe mineral oil or beeswax blends are ideal for end-grain cutting boards; film finishes like polyurethane are generally avoided for food-contact surfaces.
Notable Features
Distinct, pleasant aromatic scent due to natural oils which also provide exceptional rot resistance and insect repelling properties.
