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
Straight grain with distinct, tight annual growth rings and occasional small knots
Color & Appearance
Vibrant reddish-brown to deep purplish-red heartwood with a distinct, sharply demarcated pale yellowish-white sapwood. Darkens to a deeper reddish-brown or purplish-brown upon prolonged exposure to light
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on thickness and quality
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 30 to 50 years based on the ring count visible on the cross-section
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern, widely abundant, not listed on CITES appendices
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining chests and wardrobes, outdoor furniture, small wooden specialty items, bows, carving, and rustic construction
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can cause local tearout. Glues and finishes well, though high natural oil content can sometimes interfere with certain finishes
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, shellac, or polyurethane work well. Applying a dewaxed shellac barrier coat is recommended before polyurethane to ensure proper curing over resinous areas
Notable Features
Distinct, long-lasting pleasant aromatic scent that acts as a natural moth repellent; high natural decay and rot resistance due to natural oils; heartwood dust can be a respiratory irritant
