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, fine-textured grain with distinct growth rings visible on the cross-section end grain.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a reddish or violet-brown with sharp contrast to the pale yellowish or nearly white sapwood. Colors tend to darken and mellow toward a rich 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 for lumber, though usually sold as round logs or aromatic closet lining.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut round log, estimated growth age of 30 to 50 years based on ring count density.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining chests and closets, outdoor decking, rustic furniture, small wooden specialty items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can cause local grain irregularities and tearout. Glues and finishes well, but high natural oil content can sometimes interfere with certain adhesives.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, shellac, or lacquers work well. Water-based finishes may sometimes interact with extractives; testing on scrap wood is recommended.
Notable Features
Distinctive pleasant aromatic scent due to natural cedar oils, which act as a natural moth repellent. Highly resistant to decay and insect attack.
