Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptional resistance to decay and rot, highly resistant to insects)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with occasional knots and minor irregularities typical of flat-sawn dimensional lumber.
Color & Appearance
Pale sapwood with a brownish-red to pinkish heartwood visible beneath the weathered surface. Luster is low due to rough-sawn texture.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptional resistance to decay and rot, highly resistant to insects)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 1 to 5 years (freshly sawn or relatively recently processed lumber showing minor surface weathering).
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern, highly sustainable and abundant across its native range.
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining closets and chests, outdoor furniture, small woodworking projects, decking, and novelty items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Soft texture cuts cleanly, though knots can be brittle and prone to tearing out if not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Often left unfinished to retain its aromatic scent. Can accept light penetrating oils, shellac, or varnishes, though heavy film finishes may trap natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinct, pleasant aromatic scent from natural oils that deters moths and insects. Contains natural decay-resistant properties.
