Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, especially the heartwood.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with fine, uniform texture, predominantly flat-sawn appearance visible on the face.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood typically ranges from a dull purplish red to brownish red, often with streaks of deep red or brown; sapwood is pale yellowish-white and clearly demarcated. Colors tend to shift toward a more uniform brownish tone with prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, especially the heartwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (several decades based on the weathered patina and surface oxidation).
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), not CITES listed, widely abundant throughout its native range.
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining chests and closets, outdoor furniture, small woodenware, archery bows, and rustic construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can occasionally cause tearing; holds glue and fasteners well, and possesses a distinctive aromatic scent.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or shellac work well; film-building finishes like polyurethane can sometimes be inhibited by the natural oils in the wood.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic fragrance due to natural oils, highly resistant to insects and moisture, lightweight with good dimensional stability.
