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 a fine, uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Vibrant reddish-pink to purplish-red heartwood with a distinct, sharply contrasting yellowish-tan or white sapwood. Darkens to a deep reddish-brown or dull brown over time when exposed to UV 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
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively freshly cut or recently exposed stock, estimated under 5 years old based on bright coloration.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern, widely abundant, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining chests and wardrobes, outdoor furniture, small wooden specialty items, bows, and rustic construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can be frequent and cause slight tearing. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, wipe-on oils, or shellac. Lacquer can sometimes react with the natural oils, so testing is advised. Often left unfinished to retain the aromatic scent.
Notable Features
Distinctive, pleasant aromatic scent that repels moths and insects. Contains natural oils and is resistant to rot.
