Most likely Eastern Red Cedar; alternatives include aromatic cedar or another juniper. — Juniperus virginiana

Most likely Eastern Red Cedar; alternatives include aromatic cedar or another juniper.

Juniperus virginiana · Softwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Hardness
900 lbf; Medium under the requested scale, though commonly described as moderately soft.
Durability
Durable; heartwood has good resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is considerably less resistant.

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Grain Pattern

Straight to irregular, with pronounced fibrous tear-out and possible interlocked grain; appears partially split or naturally peeled rather than cleanly sawn.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is reddish-purple to cinnamon-brown with darker streaks; sapwood is narrow, cream to pale yellow. Heartwood typically deepens and mellows with light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

900 lbf; Medium under the requested scale, though commonly described as moderately soft.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable; heartwood has good resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is considerably less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $4–12 per board foot for ordinary usable stock; figured or clear boards may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The weathered bark, moss, oxidation, and surface checking indicate outdoor exposure, but they cannot reliably date the tree or sample.

Common Uses

Chest and closet lining, small furniture, fence posts, shingles, craft work, turning, and aromatic products.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.

Workability

Generally easy to cut, plane, sand, glue, and finish, but this piece is highly fibrous and likely to tear out; sharp tools are essential.

Finish Recommendations

Remove loose fibers, sand progressively, and use clear oil, shellac, lacquer, or satin polyurethane; test first because porous end grain absorbs finish unevenly.

Notable Features

Distinctive cedar aroma, light weight, attractive red heartwood, and natural aromatic oils.

Learn more about Most likely Eastern Red Cedar; alternatives include aromatic cedar or another juniper. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 3, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Eastern Red Cedar; Alternatives Include Aromatic Cedar Or Another Juniper. in the encyclopedia

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