Aromatic Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture, though frequently interrupted by numerous small knots and irregularities; commonly flat-sawn displaying cathedral patterns around knots.
Color Description
Heartwood is a reddish or violet-brown; sapwood is a pale yellow to white. Often exhibits sharp contrast between heart and sap. Color tends to darken to a deeper brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and highly repellent to insects such as moths.
Common Uses
Cedar chests, closet liners, fence posts, birdhouses, outdoor furniture, carvings, and pencils.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to slightly aged (1-5 years); retains vibrant pink/red hues that haven't fully oxidized to silver or dark brown.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not listed in CITES appendices; generally considered very sustainable due to rapid growth.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; however, the numerous knots can cause tearout or chipping. Glues and finishes well, though the natural oils can occasionally interfere with drying.
Notable Features
Distinctive, pleasant 'cedar' scent; contains natural aromatic oils that deter moths; fine texture but brittle; may cause respiratory irritation in some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Often left unfinished to preserve the scent, or finished with clear lacquer, polyurethane, or shellac to seal in the oils and preserve the color.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic contrast between the deep reddish-purple heartwood and pale sapwood, combined with the frequency of small knots and fine grain, is diagnostic for Juniperus virginiana.