Aromatic Cedar Lumber in Houston – Overview

Aromatic Cedar Lumber

Specifications

  • Thicknesses (Commonly Stocked at Houston Hardwoods in): 4/4 and 8/4. We also offer custom milling to your exact specifications (e.g., 1×2, 1×4, 1×6, or other custom dimensions), as well as various options including S4S, S2S, S2S1E, and SLR1E.
  • Species: Juniperus virginiana (Eastern Red Cedar)
  • Hardness (Janka): 900 lbf
  • Color: Pale yellow sapwood contrasting sharply with vibrant reddish-pink to reddish-brown heartwood, often with streaks of purple or darker reds.
  • Grain: Typically straight, with numerous small knots; fine and even texture.
  • Workability: Good — easy to work with hand and machine tools, though knots can be challenging; glues well and takes finishes.
  • Common Uses in Houston: Closet linings, chests, drawer bottoms, decorative accents, small boxes, and outdoor projects like fences.

What Makes Aromatic Cedar Unique

Aromatic Cedar stands out dramatically from other woods because of its beautiful, contrasting colors and its distinct, pleasant scent. The heartwood boasts vibrant reds and purples that highlight its natural character, often dotted with small, dark knots that add to its rustic charm. Beyond its looks, this wood is famous for its natural aroma, which comes from oils within the wood. This scent is known to repel moths and other insects, making it ideal for protecting clothes and linens. Its unique fragrance and striking appearance make it a favorite for special projects.

Why Choose Aromatic Cedar

  • Natural Pest Repellent: The unmistakable scent naturally helps keep moths and other insects away, making it perfect for storage solutions for clothing and textiles.
  • Vibrant Color and Character: Its bold red and purple hues, combined with a profusion of small knots, offer a lively, rustic look that adds warmth and visual interest to any space.
  • Pleasant Aroma: The fresh, clean scent lasts for a long time, creating a welcoming atmosphere in closets, drawers, and chests.
  • Good Workability: This wood is relatively soft and easy to cut and shape, allowing for straightforward construction and detailing.
  • Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than many other specialty hardwoods, offering unique benefits and beauty without a high price tag.

Why You Might Not Choose Aromatic Cedar

  • Numerous Knots: While adding character, the many small knots can sometimes make machining or achieving a perfectly smooth surface challenging for some applications.
  • Distinctive Scent: While a major benefit for some uses, the strong aroma might not be desired for all projects, especially if the finished piece will be placed in a main living area where a strong smell isn’t wanted.
  • Potential for Bleeding Oils: The natural oils that give it its aroma can sometimes “bleed” into lighter-colored finishes, requiring special sealing or priming to prevent discoloration.
  • Softer Hardwood: With a Janka hardness of 900 lbf, this wood is relatively soft compared to other hardwoods like Oak. It is more prone to dents and scratches, making it less suitable for high-wear surfaces.

Aromatic Cedar in the Houston Climate

Acclimation for Best Results

Aromatic Cedar performs well in Houston’s humid climate when it’s allowed to get used to indoor conditions before being used. This helps the wood stay stable and prevents unwanted movement like warping or cracking. This step is important because of our area’s high humidity (70–90%) and frequent temperature changes.

Ideal for Indoor & Covered Outdoor Projects

This wood is excellent for indoor projects like closet linings and chests, where its natural aroma and beauty can be fully appreciated. For outdoor use in Houston’s climate, it’s best suited for covered areas or projects that are well-protected from direct rain and sunlight, such as the inside of a shed or a protected fence. While naturally decay-resistant, consistent exposure to strong Houston weather can still impact its appearance over time if not properly maintained.

Color and Scent Longevity

The vibrant colors of this lumber may deepen slightly over time in sunlit Houston homes, enhancing its rich character. Its distinctive aroma can also last for many years, especially in enclosed spaces like closets. If the scent fades, light sanding can release more of its natural oils, bringing the aroma back to life.

Popular Aromatic Cedar Applications in Houston

Aromatic Cedar’s unique fragrance and striking appearance make it a favorite for Houston’s homeowners and woodworkers seeking both practical and beautiful solutions. Its natural qualities are perfect for adding freshness and protection to homes across the city and suburbs.

Popular Applications Include:

  • Closet Linings: The most popular use, creating moth-repelling and fresh-smelling closets in homes throughout Houston, including areas like Cypress and Katy.
  • Storage Chests and Boxes: Crafting beautiful and protective cedar chests, hope chests, and small storage boxes for linens and keepsakes.
  • Drawer Bottoms: Adding a layer of protection and a fresh scent to dresser drawers and custom cabinet interiors.
  • Decorative Accents: Used for interior paneling, trim, or decorative pieces that bring its distinctive color and aroma to a room.
  • Small Carvings: Its pleasant workability makes it suitable for small decorative carvings and turned items.
  • Exterior Fence Pickets: While needing some protection, its natural properties make it a good choice for unique, rustic-style fence pickets in shaded parts of the yard.

Current Design Trends Featuring Aromatic Cedar:

  • Custom Closet Systems: Integrating the wood into high-end, custom closet designs for both function and luxury.
  • Rustic Interior Accents: Using its knotty character and vibrant colors for feature walls or decorative panels in modern farmhouse or lodge-style homes.
  • Artisan Crafted Storage: Popular for handmade blankets chests, jewelry boxes, and custom storage units that offer natural protection.
  • Garden Features: Employed in protected outdoor garden sheds or unique planter boxes where its natural properties are beneficial.

Looking for Aromatic Cedar for Your Next Project?

We stock this unique wood in 4/4 and 8/4 thicknesses and can custom mill to your exact needs. Whether you’re lining a closet, building a storage chest, or creating charming decorative pieces, our team is here to help you pick the right material.

Visit Houston Hardwoods or contact us to check availability, request a quote, or discuss your project plans.