Aromatic Red Cedar (Eastern Redcedar)
Juniperus virginiana • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight with a fine even texture; characterized by frequent small knots producing a rustic, irregular face grain in flat-sawn sections.
Color Description
Heartwood is a distinct reddish or violet-brown; sapwood is pale yellow to white. It has a high contrast appearance and tends to turn golden brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and highly repellent to moths and other insects due to natural oils.
Common Uses
Cedar chests, closet linings, fence posts, pencils, small wooden novelties, birdhouses, and outdoor furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
The visible patina and deep oxidation of the red hues suggest an age of 20-50 years, likely a vintage chest or reclaimed panel.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; however, knots can cause tearout or blade deflection. It glues and finishes well but is brittle.
Notable Features
Strong, distinct aromatic scent; natural insect-repelling oils; lightweight; can be an irritant/sensitizer to some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Best left unfinished for closet use to retain scent; for furniture, clear polyurethane or lacquer is recommended to lock in color.
Identification Confidence
High; the dramatic color contrast between white sapwood and purple-red heartwood, combined with specific knot patterns, is diagnostic for Eastern Redcedar.