Cedar wood is a popular material in construction and woodworking. Although the term “cedar” is broadly applied to several species across different genera, the common types share defining characteristics that make them recognizable. Identifying cedar begins not with sight, but with the sensory experience of its aroma and its physical feel.
Identification by Scent and Weight
The most immediate and reliable identifier of cedar wood is its distinct aromatic scent, which comes from natural volatile oils like cedrol and cedrene stored within the wood fibers. The fragrance is often described as clean, pungent, or spicy, and it persists far longer than the scent of most other woods. If the wood is aged or weathered, a quick scrape or light sanding will usually release the unmistakable smell from the fresh layers beneath. This long-lasting aroma naturally deters insects, making cedar popular for storage containers and closet linings.
Another physical property that distinguishes cedar is its remarkable lightness, classifying it as a low-density softwood. This low density contributes to its excellent dimensional stability, meaning the wood resists warping and shrinking when exposed to changes in temperature and moisture. The combination of a highly aromatic fragrance and a surprisingly low mass offers a strong initial confirmation that the material is indeed cedar.
Visual Cues: Color and Grain Patterns
Visual inspection of the color and grain offers further confirmation after assessing scent and weight. Cedar wood features a striking contrast between the sapwood and the heartwood. The outer sapwood is typically a pale, creamy white or yellowish color, while the inner heartwood contains the fragrant oils and varies from a light pinkish-red to deep reddish-brown or purple. This stark color variation is particularly pronounced in certain varieties, creating a distinct, variegated appearance.
The grain of cedar is generally straight, fine, and even, giving the wood a smooth, uniform texture. While the growth rings are visible, the transition between the earlywood and latewood is often gradual, making the pattern less dramatic than in many hardwoods. Tight knots are common in lower-grade lumber, especially in Eastern Red Cedar, contributing to a rustic aesthetic. Flatsawn boards may display a subtle “cathedral” pattern.
Distinguishing Between Major Cedar Varieties
The general characteristics of scent, weight, and grain are universal, but distinguishing between the most common commercial varieties requires a closer look at their specific properties. Western Red Cedar (WRC) is prized for its consistent reddish-brown hue and is widely used for exterior applications like siding, decking, and fencing. Its texture is soft, and its aroma is milder and slightly sweeter compared to its Eastern counterpart. WRC’s large, clear boards and natural resistance to rot make it an ideal choice where weather exposure is a concern.
Eastern Red Cedar (ERC), often sold as aromatic cedar, presents a much more vibrant and variegated color palette. The heartwood of ERC frequently exhibits streaks of deep violet, purple, and rich red, contrasting sharply with the pale white sapwood. This variety possesses an intensely strong, pungent aroma, which is why it is the material of choice for lining closets and making moth-repelling products. ERC lumber tends to be knotty and is usually available in smaller boards because the trees are smaller.
Spanish Cedar (Cedrela odorata) is frequently categorized and sold as cedar due to its similar fragrance and decay resistance, even though it is technically a tropical hardwood. Its heartwood is typically a lighter pinkish-brown than the red cedars, sometimes with a golden luster, and it darkens noticeably over time. This wood is especially known for its use in humidors and cigar boxes because its oils help regulate humidity and impart a specific scent to tobacco.
Contextual Clues and Confirmation Tests
The final steps in identification involve considering the material’s application and conducting simple physical tests. Cedar’s natural resistance to decay and insects means it is often found in specific contexts. For example, if the wood is used for outdoor siding or decking, it is likely Western Red Cedar; if it lines a closet or storage chest, the highly aromatic Eastern Red Cedar is the probable choice.
A practical test for its inherent softness can be performed by pressing a fingernail into an inconspicuous area of the wood. Cedar is highly susceptible to denting, and a slight indentation will easily form, confirming its low Janka hardness rating. The combination of its lightweight nature and the distinctive reaction to physical pressure provides a complete picture for confirming the wood’s identity.