Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable, highly resistant to decay, rot, and subterranean termites
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with even texture and distinct growth rings
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a vibrant reddish-pink to deep brownish-red with sharp contrast to the pale yellowish-white sapwood; darkens to a deep reddish-brown over time when exposed to UV light
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, highly resistant to decay, rot, and subterranean termites
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently fallen or harvested branch/log section, partially weathered with intact rough bark
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant and widely distributed across its native range
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining chests and wardrobes, outdoor furniture, small wooden specialties, 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 troublesome; glues and finishes well, but high natural oil content can sometimes interfere with certain finishes
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, shellac, or lacquers work well; polyurethane can sometimes have adhesion issues due to natural oils
Notable Features
Distinctive, highly aromatic scent that repels moths; soft and lightweight with exceptional dimensional stability
