Species:

A survivor, the Eastern Red Cedar is near impervious to weather extremes, this species can survive drought, extreme heat and cold. A smaller tree, Red Cedar usually grows to thirty to forty feet, but has been known to reach heights of ninety feet or more. Easily detectable in an environment, with it's bright green color and gray bark,  this Cedar releases a fragrance that can be smelled from long distances away. The most dispersed conifer in the eastern United States, Eastern Red Cedar is native to thirty seven of our beautiful states, with seven various species of Juniper, or Red Cedar, native to Texas. 

Color:

The exterior of the tree has a bright green color, with hints of blue from it's fruit, while the bark is a scaly, dusty, gray color. The heartwood of the tree is a very distinct bright red, while the sap wood is a white to yellow tone, similar to Yellow Bald Cypress. These colors paint a unique palette in the Texas landscape, in the western part of the state in particular, where the brown and sand hues of West Texas contrast the bright green Eastern Red Cedar. 

Usage:

1. Cedar Chests and Closets:

   • Eastern red cedar is famous for its aromatic properties and natural resistance to moths and other insects. It is often used to line the interiors of cedar chests and closets to protect clothing and linens.

2. Furniture:

   • The wood of eastern red cedar is utilized in the construction of rustic furniture, such as dressers, chests, and armoires, due to its attractive appearance and aromatic qualities.

3. Outdoor Structures:

   • The wood's natural resistance to decay and insect damage makes it suitable for outdoor applications. Eastern red cedar is used in the construction of fences, decks, pergolas, and other outdoor structures.

4. Cedar Shingles:

   • The wood is sometimes used to produce cedar shingles for roofing, providing both durability and a distinctive appearance.

5. Woodworking and Craftsmanship:

   • Eastern red cedar is favored by woodworkers for crafting smaller items such as boxes, trinkets, and carvings. Its aromatic scent adds to the appeal of these handcrafted items.

6. Aromatic Products:

   • The heartwood of eastern red cedar is used to produce aromatic products such as sachets, drawer liners, and cedar blocks. These items are placed in drawers and closets to repel insects and add a pleasant scent.

7. Landscaping:

   • In landscaping, eastern red cedar is used for constructing garden beds, outdoor furniture, and decorative elements due to its resistance to decay and attractive appearance.

8. Wooden Barrels:

   • The wood of eastern red cedar has been historically used for making barrels, especially those used for storing tobacco. Its natural resistance to decay and insects makes it a practical choice for such applications.

9. Pencil Production:

   • The wood is sometimes used in the production of pencils due to its fine grain and workability.

10. Wildlife Habitat Enhancement:

    • Eastern red cedar is planted for wildlife habitat improvement. The dense foliage provides cover for birds and other small animals.

11. Wood Paneling and Siding:

    • The wood is used for interior wood paneling and exterior siding in construction, providing a distinctive look and natural durability.

12. Woodturning:

    • Eastern red cedar is favored by woodturners for creating bowls, vases, and other turned items. Its aromatic nature adds to the appeal of these handmade pieces.

13. Oil and Fragrance Production:

    • The essential oil extracted from eastern red cedar is used in the production of fragrances, perfumes, and other aromatic products.

14. Bonsai Cultivation:

    • Due to its adaptability and attractive foliage, eastern red cedar is sometimes used for bonsai cultivation.

The unique combination of aromatic qualities, durability, and attractive appearance makes eastern red cedar a versatile wood that finds application in various industries and crafts.

History and Fun Facts:

• First noted in 1564 at the colony of Roanoke Island, Virginia, Eastern Red Cedar was cherished by the colonists for fencing, building furniture, and for the construction of their log cabins.
• The berries produced by the Red Cedar provide food for many species of wildlife, birds and mammals. 
• Juniper Tea can be produced by boiling twigs, simmer for ten minutes then strain. 
• The native American peoples were known to chew berries for canker sores. 
• The Choctaw and Creek people used the oil of Red Cedar berries for dysentery 
• Smoldering leaves of the Red Cedar can be used for colds, bronchitis, and arthritis.
• The leaves reportedly contain the pharmaceutical compound podophyllotoxin, an agent found in drugs used to treat cancer and multiple sclerosis.  

view gallery