Western Red Cedar (commonly known in China as Red Cedar) is widely used for both exterior and interior construction applications. It accounts for approximately 8% of the total timber production in British Columbia and is one of the most valuable softwood species in forests due to its distinctive color, texture, and durability. It is also one of the most commercially valuable tree species in Canada.

It grows in low- to mid-elevation coastal regions of British Columbia and in the wetter inland areas of southern BC. It holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for Indigenous peoples along the Pacific Northwest coast. British Columbia is the only province where Western Red Cedar naturally grows. Its beautiful grain and dimensional stability make it an important commercial forest resource.

Growth Environment

Western Red Cedar is shade-tolerant and grows in cool, mild, and humid climates, including low- to mid-elevation coastal areas of British Columbia and humid inland regions near the Columbia and Rocky Mountains.

It is commonly found in mixed forests with species such as Douglas fir, Sitka spruce, hemlock, black cottonwood, and alder. In higher elevations, it grows alongside Engelmann spruce and larch. Western Red Cedar has a shallow, wide-spreading, and well-developed root system.

External Characteristics

Western Red Cedar is a medium to large tree species that can grow up to 60 meters in height with a diameter of up to 2.5 meters. It can live for up to 1,000 years. The crown is long and uniform, becoming irregular with age and often developing a forked top. The bark is gray with deep fissures. The foliage is flat, scale-like, and emits a distinctive aroma.

The sapwood is thin and pale yellow. The heartwood varies in color from light yellow and pinkish tones to dark brown. The transition between earlywood and latewood is distinct. It is typically straight-grained with a uniform texture, and growth rings are not very prominent in rotary-cut lumber or veneer. Knots are dark brown and may include large unsound knots. It contains no resin and has a distinct cinnamon-like aroma.

Western Red Cedar has natural decay resistance and can be used in both interior and exterior applications. Its color and grain match a wide range of architectural styles. It is easy to machine and install. Due to its relatively lower density and strength compared to other coastal softwoods, it is rarely used for structural purposes except in large-dimension exposed beams and columns where dimensional stability and appearance are important. Knotty logs are usually processed into specialty products such as exterior cladding and decking rather than structural grades.

Common Grade: Machined Grade

Beauty and durability are the most prominent characteristics of Western Red Cedar, making it one of the most widely used woods in global architectural and interior design. It is ideal for applications requiring dimensional stability, natural durability, and aesthetic appeal. Architects and designers frequently use it for outdoor decking, planters, fences, screens, garden furniture, and small garden structures. It is also popular for interior uses such as window frames, ceilings, wall paneling, sauna boards, trim, louvers, and other wood products. Its natural durability and lightweight stability make it easy to process.

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