Spanish Cedar
Cedrela odorata
Hardness
On the soft side; easy to work, but marks with hard use.
Overview
A lightweight, aromatic, decay-resistant hardwood long used for cigar boxes, humidors, and closet linings.
Commonly built
- Cigar boxes
- Humidors
- Closet linings
- Boat trim
Appearance
Light pinkish-brown to reddish-brown, with a straight, moderately open grain.
Recommended uses
Uses to avoid
Similar species
Comparable on hardness, type, and workability, useful when this species isn't available.
Working notes
Soft and easy to work with hand or power tools. Strong cedar-like aroma is part of the appeal for humidors and lining boxes.
Wood movement
A 24-inch-wide flatsawn spanish cedar panel moves roughly 0.34 inch across a typical seasonal humidity swing (about 6% to 12% moisture content). Use the wood movement calculator to run your own board size and moisture range.
How much does Spanish Cedar move? → See flatsawn vs. quartersawn figures and a worked example.
Common questions
How hard is Spanish Cedar?
Spanish Cedar has a Janka hardness of 600 lbf, a measure of how well it resists denting and wear.
Is Spanish Cedar suitable for outdoor use?
Spanish Cedar stands up reasonably well outdoors, especially with a protective finish and regular maintenance.
How easy is Spanish Cedar to work with?
Spanish Cedar has Good workability for cutting, shaping, and joinery.
How much does Spanish Cedar move seasonally?
A 24-inch-wide flatsawn spanish cedar panel moves roughly 0.34 inch across a typical seasonal humidity swing (about 6% to 12% moisture content).
Finishing notes
Takes clear finishes well and is traditionally left unfinished or lightly finished inside humidors and cigar boxes to keep its aroma active. Resin can occasionally bleed and gum a finish in hot conditions; a shellac seal coat helps. Fine, even grain finishes smoothly.
Community photos
Real photos from woodworkers who've used spanish cedar, reviewed before they appear here.
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Wood data varies by source and sample. How we source and review our data.