Cedar, Spanish (Odorata)
Latin Name: Cedrela odorata
Family: Meliaceae - the Mahogany family
Other Common Name(s): Brazilian Cedar, British Guiana Cedar, British Honduras Cedar, Cedar, Cedre Rouge, Cedro, Cedro Oloroso, Cedro Red, Central American Cedar, Cigar Box Cedar, Epi, Guyana Cedar, Honduras Cedar, Jamaican Cedar, Kapere, Mexican Cedar, Odorata Spanish Cedar, Odorata Cedar, Spanish Cedar
Imported Hardwood
Suitable for Exterior/Interior Use
Interior and Exterior
Uses
Cabinets, Carving, Doors, Cigar Boxes, Exterior Trim, Humidors, Interior Trim, Millwork, Mouldings, Musical Instruments, Shipbuilding, Windows
Distribution
This tree grows through most of Central and South America. The tree prefers to grow at lower elevations, but will grow in both most and dry soil. It is often one of the first species to regenerate in secondary forests. It also grows well in planned plantings and plantation setting.
General Description: The heartwood is pinkish to reddish brown which will darken slightly upon exposure to sunlight. The sapwood has a pale appearance. The wood is soft with a fine even texture and straight grain, which can be slightly interlocked.
Price Range ($ least expensive, $$$$$ most expensive):
$$$$
Working Properties
Machining: Excellent
Nailing: Good
Glueing: Excellent
Screwing: Excellent
Finishing: Excellent
Physical Properties
Weight (lbs/BF): 2.5
Specific Gravity: 0.35-0.42
Modulus of Rupture (psi): 5,250-8,600
Modulus of Elasticity (1,000 psi): 900-1,100
Side Hardness (lbs): 570
Additional Information
Spanish Cedar produces a resin or gum that can bleed though finishes, this however is easily controlled with proper kiln drying schedules.
Item Availability
4/4 FAS
5/4 FAS
6/4 FAS
8/4 FAS
10/4 FAS
12/4 FAS