Eastern Red Cedar (Alternative: Western Red Cedar or Juniper)
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with very fine, uniform texture visible on the transverse end-grain cross-section cut.
Color & Appearance
Pale brownish-pink to tan heartwood with a lighter yellowish sapwood ring along the bark edge. Moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate value, typically sold as small turning blanks or aromatic cedar boards ranging from $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 3 to 5 years based on the growth ring count and small diameter of the round cross-section cookie.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern, widely abundant, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Lining chests and closets, fence posts, outdoor furniture, small turned objects, carving, and rustic construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can cause local grain irregularities. Glues and finishes well, though high natural oil content can sometimes affect finishing.
Finish Recommendations
Waxes, penetrating oils, or shellac work well to preserve the natural look and scent without sealing in the aroma completely.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic fragrance, natural insect-repelling oils, high dimensional stability, and lightweight properties.
