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 to slightly irregular grain with prominent flat-sawn cathedral patterns, featuring several tight knot formations.
Color & Appearance
Distinct color variation with deep reddish-brown to purple-red heartwood and pale yellowish-white sapwood. Exhibits a natural luster that tends to dull to a grayish-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 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled lumber (freshly cut on a sawmill, evident from the wet/saw-marked surface appearance)
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (Not listed on CITES or IUCN red list, widely abundant)
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining chests and wardrobes, outdoor furniture, small wooden specialty items, rustic cabinetry, and bows.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Soft texture can occasionally cause tearout around knots if blades are not sharp, takes glue and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, wipe-on varnishes, or shellac. Polyurethane works well too, but finishes that preserve the natural feel and allow the aroma to persist are often preferred.
Notable Features
Distinct, highly aromatic scent that repels moths and insects, lightweight, and exceptionally resistant to decay when in contact with soil.
