Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture. Frequently contains numerous small knots which can create decorative figure. This specific cross-section shows distinct annual growth rings and checking typical of seasoned logs.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a reddish or rosy-pink brown; sapwood is a pale yellow to nearly white. The color tends to darken and become more brownish over time when exposed to UV light.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium); it is one of the denser softwoods, comparable to some lighter hardwoods.
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay. Highly resistant to insect attack, especially moths, due to its natural aromatic oils.
Common Uses
Fence posts, closet liners, chests, small wooden specialty items, carvings, outdoor furniture, birdhouses, and pencils.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and presence of knots.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly split to slightly seasoned firewood; the log likely came from a tree approximately 15-25 years old based on the growth ring density and diameter.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widespread and not CITES listed. Often considered an invasive species in some parts of the Midwestern U.S. due to its rapid spread in unmanaged fields.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It saws, planes, and sands well, though knots can cause some tearout. Glues and finishes easily.
Notable Features
Distinctive, lingering aromatic scent. contains natural oils that repel insects. The dust can be a respiratory irritant for some people. Extremely stable with minimal movement in service.
Finish Recommendations
Best left unfinished or finished with clear sealers (like lacquer or polyurethane) to preserve the scent or the vibrant color. Oil finishes will darken the wood significantly.
Identification Confidence
High; the striking contrast between the reddish heartwood and yellow sapwood, combined with the thin, stringy, reddish-brown bark visible in the image, is diagnostic for Eastern Red Cedar.