Eastern Red Cedar (Aromatic Red Cedar)
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium - relatively hard for a softwood species)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Heartwood possesses high natural resistance to decay, rot, and fungal attack; highly resistant to insect infestations due to natural extractives and aromatic oils).
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn live edge slab displaying fine straight growth rings surrounding prominent dark knot features with flame-like cathedral figure trails below knots. Mild irregular figure and surface checking visible along growth ring lines.
Color & Appearance
Distinct contrasting tones showing pale creamy white-to-yellow sapwood along the live edges, with a heartwood palette ranging from soft pinkish-tan to reddish-purple hues surrounding knots. Tends to darken/amber to a muted warm brown with prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium - relatively hard for a softwood species)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Heartwood possesses high natural resistance to decay, rot, and fungal attack; highly resistant to insect infestations due to natural extractives and aromatic oils).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $14.00 per board foot for live-edge slabs with distinctive knot/grain characteristics.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern harvest slab, likely aged 1-5 years post-milling, exhibiting natural drying checks and preliminary surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern. Not listed under CITES. Highly sustainable and abundant across its native range.
Common Uses
Chests, closet linings, live-edge furniture tops, fence posts, small turned items, carvings, outdoor furniture, and novelty craft items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and power tools, though knots can be hard, brittle, and prone to tearout during planing. Glues, sands, and finishes well, though pre-drilling is recommended for screws.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coats such as wiping polyurethane, lacquer, or penetrating oils (tung/linseed) enhance color contrast and preserve grain contrast. Leave untreated on interior storage lining to retain natural aromatic qualities.
Notable Features
Presents a distinct, pleasant aromatic scent characteristic of cedar oils. Fine texture, light weight, low shrinkage, and strong natural insect repellent properties.
