Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium); though technically a softwood, it sits near the hardness of many medium-density hardwoods.
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay; highly resistant to insect attack, especially moths.
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Grain Pattern
Usually straight with a fine, even texture. Frequently contains numerous small, tight knots that create irregular grain patterns around them.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a striking reddish or violet-brown; sapwood is pale yellow or white. Color tends to darken to a deeper brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium); though technically a softwood, it sits near the hardness of many medium-density hardwoods.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay; highly resistant to insect attack, especially moths.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on width and clear versus knotty grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Living specimen appearing to be approximately 15-25 years old based on branching density and height.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Extremely sustainable; often considered an invasive species in some prairie regions due to its rapid spread.
Common Uses
Closet lining, chests, fence posts, birdhouses, outdoor furniture, pencils, and essential oil production.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It saws, planes, and sands well. It can be brittle and prone to splitting when nailing or screwing near edges.
Finish Recommendations
Best left unfinished for aromatic uses. If finishing, polyurethane or lacquer work well to preserve color, though shellac is often used as a sealer.
Notable Features
Distinctive, pleasant aromatic scent; contains natural oils that repel moths; relatively lightweight with good dimensional stability.
