Spanish Cedar
Cedrela odorata · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America and the Caribbean.
- Hardness
- 600 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, and specifically resistant to termite and insect attacks due to its high natural oil and resin content.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight or shallowly interlocked, with a fine to medium uniform texture and visible growth rings in the end grain that suggest a diffuse-porous to semi-ring-porous structure.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown, which tends to darken with age. Sapwood is pale pinkish-white to light brown. Features a natural silken luster.
Hardness (Janka)
600 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, and specifically resistant to termite and insect attacks due to its high natural oil and resin content.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $12.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern cut, likely less than 5 years old based on the crispness of the edges, lack of significant oxidation, and clean surface preparation.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on CITES Appendix II and classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to past over-exploitation and habitat loss.
Common Uses
Humidors, boat building, musical instruments (classical guitar necks), cabinetry, exterior siding, and window shutters.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America and the Caribbean.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and sands well, though its softness makes it prone to denting. High resin content can occasionally gum up sandpaper or saw blades.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to most finishes. Lacquer and polyurethane are common, though the wood's natural oils can occasionally interfere with the curing of some oil-based finishes. Shellac is an excellent sealer.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, lingering cedar-like scent. Contains natural oils that repel insects. It is exceptionally lightweight for its durability, and it is known for its stability in varying humidity.
