Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and flat-sawn with a distinct cathedral figure in the heartwood. Medium to fine uniform texture with visible latewood growth rings and occasional small knots.
Color Description
Reddish or violet-brown heartwood sharply demarcated from pale yellow to white sapwood. Luster is typically dull; color tends to mellow to a silvery-grey on the exterior if unfinished, or a deeper reddish-brown when sealed.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and insect attack, particularly the aromatic heartwood.
Common Uses
Fence posts, closet liners, chests, outdoor furniture, birdhouses, pencils, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on width and knot density.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh; the high contrast between heartwood and sapwood suggests minimal UV oxidation or long-term storage patina. Estimated 1-3 years since milling.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. FSC certified sources are widely available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and sands well, though knots can be brittle and prone to breakout. Excellent gluing properties.
Notable Features
Extremely distinct cedar-chest aroma; used naturally for moth and pest repulsion. Contains fragrant oils that can occasionally bleed through thin finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer are best for preserving color. To maintain scent in applications like closets, the wood should be left unfinished.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic 'cathedral' heartwood pattern transition to pale sapwood and tight growth rings are diagnostic for Juniperus virginiana.