Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay; highly repellent to moths and other insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight with a fine, even texture; displaying distinct growth rings and occasional small knots; flat-sawn appearance on the bowl surface.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a reddish-brown to violet-pink when fresh, darkening to a medium brown with age. Sapwood is a pale yellow to white. High contrast is visible between the two zones.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay; highly repellent to moths and other insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The object appears to be 20-40 years old based on the oxidation of the sapwood and the soft patina on the turned surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List; considered very sustainable and abundant.
Common Uses
Fence posts, closet liners, chests, small turned items (bowls/mushrooms), furniture, and essential oils.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools; sands very smooth; glues and finishes well, though natural oils can sometimes affect film-building finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for protection, or a simple wax/oil finish to maintain the natural scent. Avoid heavy staining to preserve the contrast.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'cedar' aroma; very lightweight; contains natural aromatic oils; can cause respiratory irritation in some woodworkers.
