Eastern Red Cedar

Notes
Despite its name, Eastern Red Cedars are not Cedar trees. Technically, they are categorized under a Juniper tree. Please note that these trees should not be planted near Apple trees due to cedar-apple rust.

Uses
Eastern Red Cedar trees are popularly used as Christmas trees. They also supplement as landscape and windbreak trees. Along with that, they have multiple medical purposes. Many use the bark of the tree to start fires in a Boy Scout fashion. The oil from the wood is found in many insect repellants, perfumes, and soaps. Whereas, the wood itself is commonly used for furniture, fences posts, novelties, and – if cut into shavings – bedding for pets.

Wildlife Value
The fruit of the Eastern Red Cedar is extensively eaten by cedar waxwings, whereas, the twigs and foliage are often enjoyed by multiple woodland mammals. Its leaves and branches offer stable nesting and cover for sparrows, robins, mockingbirds, juncos and warblers.

History & Lore
Dating back to aboriginal America, the Eastern Red Cedar is know as a very ancient tree. Fossil evidence indicates that this species covered large portions of the continent. In 1564, Famous explorers Arthur Barlowe and Philip Amadus stated that the Eastern Red Cedar was "the tallest and reddest cedars in the world" when they arrived in Roanoke Island, NC. Craftsmen during the colonial time period considered the wood perfect use for furniture, fences, and was a staple for making pencils.