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 a fine, even texture. The face grain shows distinctive flat-sawn cathedral patterns along with numerous tight knots (knotty appearance).
Color & Appearance
Striking color contrast featuring a vibrant pinkish to reddish-brown heartwood paired with a pale yellowish-white sapwood. The wood tends to darken and shift toward a rich reddish-brown or purplish-brown patina upon prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light and air.
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
- Recently milled or fresh lumber (estimated 1 to 5 years old based on bright coloration and lack of heavy oxidation/patina)
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Chest linings, closets, wardrobe construction, fence posts, outdoor furniture, small turned objects, carvings, and rustic twig furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though tight knots can present challenges with tearout or blade dulling. Glues, screws, and nails well, and holds finishes decently despite natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes, shellac, or lacquers are preferred. Oil finishes can sometimes struggle to cure properly due to the high natural aromatic oil content of the wood.
Notable Features
Famous for its strong, distinct, pleasant aromatic scent which naturally repels moths and other insects. Contains natural decay-resistant oils and creates mild respiratory irritation from dust.
