Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and subterranean termites.
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Grain Pattern
Fine, straight grain with distinct, narrow growth rings visible on the cross-cut end grain. Includes a few small knot formations.
Color & Appearance
Distinct variation between a reddish-purple to brown heartwood and a pale yellowish-white sapwood. Luster is moderate, and it tends to darken and brown with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and subterranean termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Approximately 40 to 50 years based on the count of distinct annual growth rings visible on the cross-section.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List. Widely abundant and not CITES-listed.
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining for chests and closets, rustic furniture, outdoor applications, small woodenware, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can present challenges. Glues and finishes well, but high natural oil content can sometimes affect finishing.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, shellac, or lacquers work well. Water-based finishes may struggle with adhesion over fresh aromatic oils unless a dewaxed shellac sealer is applied first.
Notable Features
Distinctive, highly aromatic cedar scent that acts as a natural insect repellent. Contains natural aromatic oils and has high dimensional stability.
