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Wood Species in Detail: Spanish Cedar

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Spanish cedar wood signifies exotic beauty in all its applications. This pinkish-brown wood features very unique, telltale grain patterns and textures. Spanish cedar wood is highly desired in many woodworking fields. Let’s dive into the world of Spanish cedar — where it comes from, its special qualities, and how to use it.

What Is Spanish Cedar Wood?

Spanish cedar wood (common name) comes from a tree species named Cedrela odorata (scientific name).

The species is native to Latin America. Central and South American tropical climates provide ideal growing conditions for Spanish cedar, which is, surprisingly, not a type of cedar tree at all. Spanish cedar wood is more closely related to mahogany than true cedar.

Indigenous people throughout Central and South America used Spanish cedar for many purposes. They crafted tools, built structures, and used Spanish cedar in precious rituals and ceremonies.

Once Spanish cedar lumber is processed, kiln-dried, and graded, it can be used for either functional or aesthetic purposes. Lumber pieces with higher grades go on to become upscale furniture, cabinets, and other woodworking projects.

Characteristics of Spanish Cedar

The origins of a Spanish cedar tree determine its properties. From color richness to density, different Spanish cedar trees produce lumber with varying specs. Spanish cedar is ever-changing as it ages. Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind.

Spanish Cedar

Color

Spanish cedar wood has a distinct color spectrum, ranging from pink to reddish brown. As the wood ages, it often takes on a darker, richer reddish-brown hue.

Physical Properties

Spanish cedar hardwood has a Janka hardness scale rating of 600 lbf. This wood species is far softer than mahogany, red oak, and cherry wood but harder than western red cedar, poplar, and alder wood.

Its grain patterns set Spanish cedar wood apart from other hardwoods. Each piece features a straight grain pattern with a nearly uniform amount of wavy grain patches.

Mechanical Properties

Spanish cedar has an average dried weight of 420-610 kg/m³. This is considered a moderate density. This wood can hold between 8,000 and 10,000 psi (bending strength).

Spanish cedar wood’s stiffness ranking (modulus of elasticity) falls around 1.4 million psi (about 8-10 GPa). This means it remains stable and shapely, even when manipulated or worked under heavy loads.

Durability

Spanish cedar is known for its moderate durability, especially in indoor settings. It naturally resists decay, making it a reliable choice for indoor furniture, cabinetry, and millwork. Its stability and resistance to warping or cracking under controlled indoor conditions help ensure that it retains its structural integrity over time. This durability makes Spanish cedar ideal for long-lasting interior projects where strength and resilience are essential.

Workmanship

Spanish cedar is moderately easy to work with. Since it’s soft with low density, it can be tough to sand and may leave surfaces with a “fuzzy” look. The natural oils in the wood help with finish and stain absorption.

Advantages of Spanish Cedar for Furniture

Spanish cedar wood is an ideal pick for crafting furniture, cabinetry, and other ornamental home elements. From aesthetics to workability and durability, you can’t go wrong with choosing Spanish cedar for your woodworker projects.

Lightweight

Spanish cedar has a moderate density, making it lightweight. It’s easy to move and work with, which offers convenience when crafting and using furniture.

Workability

Making furniture involves lots of sanding, shaping, and general working. Spanish cedar wood can easily be worked into the shape and smoothness you want, making it a great choice for furniture woodworking.

Attractive Appearance

Spanish cedar’s unique grain patterns and rich coloring are widely loved throughout the world. From the USA to Mexico and beyond, Spanish cedar has a clear place in the furniture industry.

Versatility

You can use Spanish cedar in many different ways, especially when working with specific stains and finishes. This versatile wood is beautiful on its own and even more eye-catching when a light stain is added.

How Do You Properly Care For and Maintain Spanish Cedar Furniture?

Try to preserve the natural oils and gums in Spanish cedar wood to retain the beautiful aesthetic you’re after. Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaners. You can deep-clean Spanish cedar furniture using a mild soap.

Spanish cedar pieces hold up well in humid conditions, but you should still monitor the environment. Use a dehumidifier if the room goes above 60% humidity.

Reapply a protective finish every one to three years to protect the natural wood from moisture and UV exposure. The finish should seal the surface, preventing future wear-and-tear issues.

Ordering Spanish Cedar Wood at Osborne

Our vast catalog of Spanish cedar wood parts contains wonderful stain-grade options. You can customize the color and finish of your Spanish cedar pieces using your choice of stain. At Osborne Wood, we have just what you need to get started.

Start Your Spanish Cedar Project With Osborne Wood

We’re here to help your furniture-crafting dreams come to life. With high-quality Spanish cedar wood pieces and experts ready to help you, we have everything you need to succeed in your next woodworking project. Speak with a product specialist to start your next project!

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