Most likely Eastern red cedar; alternatives include aromatic red cedar or juniper. — Juniperus virginiana

Most likely Eastern red cedar; alternatives include aromatic red cedar or juniper.

Juniperus virginiana · Softwood; aromatic conifer

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood; aromatic conifer
Origin
Native to eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Hardness
About 900 lbf Janka; Medium by the supplied scale, though it feels relatively soft in practice.
Durability
Durable; heartwood has good natural resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Likely straight to slightly irregular grain, with small knots and localized checks; the round, bark-adjacent surface prevents reliable assessment of cut orientation or figure.

Color & Appearance

Weathered reddish-brown heartwood with paler sapwood and strong oxidation/dirt darkening; fresh cedar is typically pink to purplish red and becomes brown with light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

About 900 lbf Janka; Medium by the supplied scale, though it feels relatively soft in practice.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable; heartwood has good natural resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $4–$12 per board foot for ordinary clear stock; this rough pole has little conventional lumber value.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be determined from the photograph; surface weathering suggests outdoor or prolonged handling, not necessarily old wood.

Common Uses

Closet lining, chests, fence posts, rustic furniture, carving, turning, and decorative poles.

Geographic Origin

Native to eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.

Workability

Easy to cut, plane, sand, glue, and fasten; knots, resin, loosened bark, and irregular grain may cause tearout or uneven finishing.

Finish Recommendations

Brush off loose material, sand progressively, and use penetrating oil or exterior-rated clear finish; test first because weathered surfaces absorb unevenly.

Notable Features

Distinctive cedar aroma, low weight, attractive red heartwood, and frequent knots; visible surface appears heavily weathered.

Learn more about Most likely Eastern red cedar; alternatives include aromatic red cedar or juniper. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 20, 2026