Most likely Eastern red cedar; alternatives include aromatic red cedar or weathered juniper. — Juniperus virginiana

Most likely Eastern red cedar; alternatives include aromatic red cedar or weathered juniper.

Juniperus virginiana · Softwood; North American aromatic conifer

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood; North American aromatic conifer
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Plains and eastern United States.
Hardness
900 lbf Janka; Medium (borderline).
Durability
Very Durable: naturally resistant to decay and many insects, especially as heartwood, though exposed weathering causes checking and surface erosion.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, coarse grain with prominent longitudinal splitting, checking, and irregular weathered surface; no clear decorative figure visible.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is typically pinkish to reddish brown, but severe weathering has faded it to gray-brown; sapwood appears pale. Surface silvering and dark oxidation are evident.

Hardness (Janka)

900 lbf Janka; Medium (borderline).

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable: naturally resistant to decay and many insects, especially as heartwood, though exposed weathering causes checking and surface erosion.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $4–$10 per board foot for clear usable stock; this heavily weathered material has mainly rustic or reclaimed value, often under $3 per board foot.

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 sample’s weathered face suggests years to decades of outdoor exposure, but the tree’s age cannot be estimated reliably from this image.

Common Uses

Closet lining, chests, fence posts, outdoor structures, shingles, rustic furniture, carving, and aromatic storage boxes.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Plains and eastern United States.

Workability

Cuts and sands readily but is soft, splinter-prone, and may tear along the grain; resin can interfere with finishing and dullness is generally modest. Pre-drilling is useful near edges.

Finish Recommendations

Brush off loose fibers, sand carefully, and use penetrating exterior oil for a rustic appearance; film finishes require thorough preparation and may fail as the weathered surface continues to move.

Notable Features

Distinctive cedar aroma, low weight, dimensional stability, and strong natural rot resistance; the pictured piece shows extensive checking and weather silvering.

Learn more about Most likely Eastern red cedar; alternatives include aromatic red cedar or weathered juniper. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 22, 2026

Encyclopedia

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

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