Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks.
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Grain Pattern
Fine, uniform, straight-grained texture visible on the end-grain ring growth pattern, displaying distinct annual growth rings with gradual transitions.
Color & Appearance
Striking contrast between the deep purplish-brown to rich reddish-brown heartwood and the pale, yellowish-white sapwood. Colors tend to mute and turn grayish-brown over time when exposed to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot, higher for specially selected heartwood pieces.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 15 to 25 years based on the count of distinct annual growth rings visible on the cross-section.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern; widely abundant and renewable across its native range, not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists.
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining for chests and closets, small turned objects, outdoor furniture, rustic construction, and archery bows.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can present challenges. Glues and finishes well, but high natural oil content can sometimes interfere with certain finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, shellac, or lacquers work well. Water-based finishes may require thorough surface wiping to remove surface oils for proper adhesion.
Notable Features
Distinct, highly aromatic cedar scent that naturally repels moths and insects; high natural oil content and dimensional stability.
