Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with a uniform texture. The sample shows typical horizontal machining marks across the face; knots are common in this species, one small instance of which is visible.
Color Description
The heartwood is a distinct reddish-pink or violet-brown hue. Sapwood (though mostly absent here) is typically pale yellow/white. It tends to darken to a deeper reddish-brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay. Highly resistant to insect attack, especially moths and silverfish.
Common Uses
Closet linings, chests, fence posts, outdoor furniture, birdhouses, pencils, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (from the Atlantic coast to the Great Plains and south to the Gulf of Mexico).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern. The deep color suggests it hasn't undergone significant graying from weathering, though the rough surface indicates it may be a scrap or offcut.
Sustainability Status
Abundant and widespread; not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List. Categorized as Least Concern.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It saws, planes, and sands well, though knots can be brittle and prone to breakout. It takes stains and finishes well, though its natural scent is often preserved by leaving it unfinished in closets.
Notable Features
Potent and pleasant aromatic scent due to natural oils. Known for repelling insects. Low shock resistance and relatively lightweight.
Finish Recommendations
Often left unfinished to allow the scent to permeate. If finishing is desired, a clear lacquer or polyurethane is recommended to preserve the color; oil-based finishes may significantly darken the wood.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic pinkish-red hue, fine grain, and the specific splintering pattern on the rough-cut side are hallmark traits of Eastern Red Cedar.