Spanish Cedar Wood Guide 2026
Cedrela odorata
Typically described as aromatic lightweight tropical cedar
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 35 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Mexico;Brazil
- Common uses include Cigar humidors, Closets, Exterior millwork
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: The texture is medium to coarse with an even distribution.
Workability: It is very easy to machine and cuts cleanly.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: It is easy to finish but can have issues with resin bleed.
Color change: The reddish-brown color will fade to a silver-grey if left unfinished outdoors.
Insect resistance: It is naturally resistant to termites and wood-boring insects.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Spanish Cedar. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches. | Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches. | Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches. | Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches. | Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 12/4 | 3" | 2-3/4" | Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches. | Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
- 12/4rough 3"
- Surfaced
- 2-3/4"
- Widths
- Standard random widths range from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically stocked in random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
Decking & exterior profiles
Commonly available in T&G and various decking profiles.
Availability notes: Widely available through specialty lumber and exterior wood suppliers.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light pinkish brown
Grain: Straight; fine texture
Common Uses
- Cigar humidors
- Closets
- Exterior millwork
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Cedro;Cigar Box Cedar
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 600 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Very Durable
- Sourced from Mexico;Brazil
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
- Availability may vary
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Spanish Cedar is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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Comparisons
Calculators & Tools
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