Red Cedar

A lightweight, aromatic hardwood prized for natural durability, stability, and outdoor performance.

Common Name(s): Red Cedar, Cedrela, Spanish Cedar (trade grouping)

Scientific Name: Cedrela odorata (primary), Cedrela fissilis, Cedrela angustifolia

Distribution: Central America, Northern South America, Guyana, Suriname

Red Cedar is a lightweight, naturally durable hardwood known for its aromatic scent, excellent stability, and resistance to insects. Sourced from Guyana and the wider Amazon region, Red Cedar is widely used in cabinetry, furniture, millwork, and exterior applications where dimensional stability is essential. Its warm reddish‑brown colour, fine texture, and ease of machining make it a favourite among craftsmen. Red Cedar offers a unique balance of low weight, good durability, and excellent workability.

Key Attributes

Appearance

Colour

Light pinkish‑brown to reddish‑brown

Grain

Straight, sometimes interlocked

Texture

Fine, uniform

Density

Light to medium

Performance

Workability

Easy–Moderate (machines cleanly)

Durability

Durable (natural insect resistance)

Stability

Excellent dimensional stability

Technical Information

Property	Value
Janka Hardness	600–900 lbf
Modulus of Rupture	9,000–11,500 psi
Modulus of Elasticity	1,100,000–1,300,000 psi
Density	28–34 lbs/ft³ (avg ~31)
Crushing Strength	5,000–6,500 psi
Shrinkage (Radial)	2.8%
Shrinkage (Tangential)	4.8%
Shrinkage (Volumetric)	7.5%
T/R Ratio	1.7
Workability	Easy–Moderate (machines cleanly, aromatic)
Planing	Excellent
Sanding	Excellent
Finishing	Accepts oils and varnish well
Stability	Excellent dimensional stability
Durability	Durable (natural insect resistance)
Moisture Movement	Low