Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and insect attacks.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture and occasional knots.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a reddish or violet-brown; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. The color tends to darken to a deeper brown with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, likely several decades old based on surface oxidation and patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern; widely available and sustainable.
Common Uses
Fence posts, lining closets and chests, outdoor furniture, small wooden specialty items, and rustic construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can cause minor tearing. Glues and finishes well, though high natural oil content can sometimes affect finishing.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, shellac, or wiping varnishes. Water-based finishes may struggle due to natural oils, so dewaxed shellac as a sealer is recommended.
Notable Features
Distinctive, pleasant aromatic scent that repels moths and insects. Contains natural oils and possesses high dimensional stability.
