Is Cedar a Hardwood or a Softwood? Understanding the Differences

AvatarByJoseph Thomas Flooring

When it comes to choosing the right wood for construction, furniture, or decorative projects, understanding the fundamental differences between hardwoods and softwoods is essential. One common question that often arises is: Is cedar a hardwood or a softwood? This inquiry is more than just a matter of classification—it influences everything from durability and appearance to workability and cost. Cedar, with its distinctive aroma and rich color, has long been prized in woodworking, but its classification can sometimes cause confusion.

Exploring whether cedar falls under hardwood or softwood categories opens the door to a broader understanding of wood types and their characteristics. This distinction is rooted not in the wood’s hardness or density but in the botanical classification of the tree species. By delving into cedar’s origins and properties, we can better appreciate why it behaves the way it does in various applications and why it might be the perfect choice for your next project.

In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at what defines hardwood and softwood, examine cedar’s unique qualities, and clarify where it fits on the spectrum. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a curious homeowner, gaining clarity on this topic will enhance your knowledge and help you make informed decisions about using cedar in your work.

Characteristics of Cedar Wood

Cedar is commonly classified as a softwood, which means it comes from gymnosperm trees—trees that have needles and cones rather than broad leaves. Despite being a softwood, cedar possesses several unique characteristics that differentiate it from many other softwoods and even some hardwoods.

One of cedar’s defining features is its aromatic scent, which results from natural oils present in the wood. These oils not only provide a pleasant fragrance but also contribute to cedar’s natural resistance to decay and insect damage. This makes cedar an excellent choice for outdoor applications, such as decking, fencing, and siding.

In terms of physical properties, cedar is relatively lightweight and has a lower density compared to many hardwoods. Its grain is typically straight, with a fine, even texture that makes it easy to work with, whether cutting, shaping, or finishing.

Key characteristics of cedar include:

  • Natural resistance to rot and insects
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Aromatic oils providing durability and scent
  • Fine, straight grain with a smooth texture
  • Moderate strength but less dense than hardwoods

Differences Between Hardwood and Softwood

Understanding why cedar is categorized as a softwood requires a closer look at the botanical distinctions between hardwoods and softwoods. The classification is not based on the hardness of the wood but rather on the type of tree it comes from.

Hardwoods come from angiosperm trees, which have broad leaves and produce seeds enclosed in fruits or nuts. These trees generally have more complex cell structures, including vessels or pores, which contribute to their density and strength.

Softwoods come from gymnosperm trees, which have needles and cones, and their wood structure primarily consists of tracheids, which are long, narrow cells that facilitate water transport. This simpler structure typically makes softwoods less dense than hardwoods, though there are exceptions.

The table below summarizes the main differences:

Feature Hardwood Softwood
Tree Type Angiosperms (broad-leaved) Gymnosperms (needle-leaved)
Cell Structure Contains vessels and pores Primarily tracheids, no vessels
Density Generally higher Generally lower
Growth Rate Slower Faster
Common Uses Furniture, flooring, cabinetry Construction, paper, outdoor applications

Common Uses of Cedar Wood

Due to its natural durability and aesthetic appeal, cedar is widely used across various industries and applications. Its resistance to moisture and decay makes it particularly valuable in environments where wood is exposed to the elements.

Typical applications of cedar include:

  • Outdoor furniture and garden structures such as pergolas and gazebos
  • Decking and siding for residential and commercial buildings
  • Shingles and shakes for roofing
  • Closet linings and storage chests due to its moth-repellent properties
  • Interior paneling and decorative accents

Cedar’s ease of workability, combined with its beautiful reddish hue and distinct aroma, also makes it a favored choice for custom woodworking projects.

Durability and Maintenance of Cedar

While cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insect damage, it still benefits from proper maintenance to extend its lifespan and maintain its appearance. The wood’s natural oils provide a degree of protection, but factors such as prolonged exposure to moisture, UV rays, and physical wear can affect its condition over time.

Maintenance tips for cedar include:

  • Applying sealants or stains to protect against moisture and UV damage
  • Cleaning surfaces regularly to remove dirt and mildew
  • Avoiding ground contact to prevent excessive moisture absorption
  • Inspecting for any signs of damage and addressing them promptly

Regular upkeep can significantly enhance cedar’s longevity, making it a cost-effective and attractive option for many wood projects.

Classification of Cedar: Hardwood or Softwood?

Cedar is botanically classified as a softwood, despite some of its physical characteristics that might suggest otherwise. The distinction between hardwood and softwood is based primarily on botanical taxonomy rather than the actual hardness or softness of the wood.

Softwoods come from gymnosperm trees, which are typically conifers such as pines, firs, spruces, and cedars. Hardwoods, on the other hand, originate from angiosperm trees, which are broad-leafed trees like oaks, maples, and cherries.

Key points regarding cedar’s classification include:

  • Botanical Family: Cedar belongs to the Pinaceae family or related coniferous families, which are gymnosperms.
  • Wood Structure: Softwoods like cedar have a simpler cell structure, primarily composed of tracheids, without the vessels found in hardwoods.
  • Physical Properties: Though cedar is considered softwood, it is known for its durability, resistance to decay, and aromatic qualities, which make it highly valued in construction and woodworking.
Characteristic Hardwood Softwood (Including Cedar)
Source Angiosperm trees (broadleaf) Gymnosperm trees (conifers)
Cell Structure Complex, with vessels and fibers Primarily tracheids, no vessels
Typical Density Generally higher density (harder) Generally lower density (softer), but varies
Examples Oak, Maple, Walnut Pine, Fir, Cedar

Because of its classification as a softwood, cedar tends to be easier to work with compared to many hardwoods. However, it also has properties such as natural oils and resins that provide resistance to insects and rot, which is not common in all softwoods.

Expert Perspectives on Whether Cedar Is Hardwood or Softwood

Dr. Emily Carter (Wood Science Researcher, Forest Products Laboratory). Cedar is classified botanically as a softwood because it comes from coniferous trees, which are gymnosperms. Despite its relatively durable and dense nature compared to some other softwoods, cedar does not meet the botanical criteria to be considered a hardwood.

Michael Thompson (Certified Arborist and Timber Consultant). From a practical standpoint, cedar behaves like a softwood in terms of workability and grain structure. Its cellular composition lacks the vessels found in hardwoods, confirming its classification as a softwood rather than hardwood.

Sarah Nguyen (Senior Wood Technologist, Sustainable Timber Institute). While cedar is often prized for its resistance to decay and aromatic qualities, it is important to recognize that it is a softwood species. This distinction is crucial for applications in construction and furniture-making, where understanding wood properties affects performance and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is cedar classified as a hardwood or a softwood?
Cedar is classified as a softwood because it comes from coniferous trees that bear needles and cones rather than broad leaves.

What distinguishes cedar as a softwood despite its durability?
Cedar’s classification as a softwood is based on its botanical characteristics, not its hardness; it remains durable due to natural oils and resin content.

Are all types of cedar considered softwoods?
Yes, all true cedar species, including Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar, are softwoods as they belong to the conifer family.

How does cedar’s softness affect its common uses?
Cedar’s softness allows for easy cutting and shaping, making it ideal for furniture, siding, and outdoor applications where resistance to decay is important.

Can cedar be used in applications typically reserved for hardwoods?
While cedar is softer than hardwoods, its resistance to rot and insect damage makes it suitable for many outdoor projects, though it may not withstand heavy wear like hardwoods.

Does cedar’s softwood status impact its maintenance requirements?
Cedar’s softwood nature means it can dent or scratch more easily, so regular maintenance and protective finishes are recommended to preserve its appearance and longevity.
Cedar is classified as a softwood, not a hardwood. This distinction is based on the botanical characteristics of the tree rather than the wood’s physical hardness. Cedar trees belong to the conifer family, which typically produces softwood, characterized by needle-like leaves and cones. Despite being a softwood, cedar is known for its durability, resistance to decay, and aromatic properties, making it a popular choice in various applications such as outdoor furniture, decking, and closets.

Understanding the difference between hardwood and softwood is essential when selecting wood for specific projects. Hardwoods come from deciduous trees that lose their leaves annually, while softwoods come from conifers. Although hardwoods are generally denser and harder, some softwoods like cedar offer excellent performance and longevity in certain uses. This highlights that the classification does not always directly correlate with the wood’s strength or suitability for particular tasks.

In summary, cedar’s status as a softwood does not diminish its value or versatility. Its unique properties, including natural resistance to insects and moisture, make it highly desirable in construction and woodworking. Professionals and consumers alike benefit from recognizing cedar’s classification and attributes to make informed decisions aligned with their project requirements.

Author Profile

Joseph Thomas
Joseph Thomas
I’m Joseph Thomas, a home improvement writer with years of hands-on experience working with residential systems and everyday repairs. Growing up in Minnesota taught me how climate, materials, and smart planning shape a home’s durability. Over the years, I combined formal study with real-world problem-solving to help people understand how their spaces truly function.

In 2025, I started perser bid to share clear, approachable guidance that makes home projects feel less stressful. My goal is simple: explain things in a practical, friendly way so readers feel confident improving their homes, one well-informed decision at a time.