Atlantic White Cedar
Chamaecyparis thyoides • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with very distinct growth rings showing a clear transition between earlywood and latewood; characteristic knot-free appearance in higher grades but often used with live-edge/bark features
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish or yellowish brown. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white and is generally narrow. The wood weathers to a uniform silver-gray when exposed to the elements and develops a deeper honey patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; noted for exceptional resistance to decay and rot, though it has moderate resistance to insect attack.
Common Uses
Boat building, shingles, siding, fence posts, decking, outdoor furniture, and specialty gift items/wood crafts involving live-edge designs.
Geographic Origin
East Coast of the United States, primarily in freshwater swamps and bogs from Maine to Florida.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on thickness and live-edge premium.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears recently milled and finished with an oil or wax, estimated at 1-5 years post-processing based on the brightness of the earlywood and lack of deep oxidation on the cut faces.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN; however, Atlantic White Cedar swamps are considered rare ecosystems. FSC certified stock is often available.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and sands very smoothly, though its softness makes it prone to denting and marring. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive, pleasant aromatic scent similar to other cedars; very lightweight with excellent dimensional stability; has a high oil content that aids in moisture resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Clear oils, shellac, or polyurethane. Light oils are recommended to preserve the natural scent if the item is for indoor use; outdoor items require UV-resistant sealers to prevent graying.
Identification Confidence
High - The combination of extremely distinct, wide latewood growth rings, the pale uniform color of the milled face, and the specific texture/thickness of the dark bark visible on the live edge is diagnostic for Atlantic White Cedar.