American cedar, generally referring to wood from trees like Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) and Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata), is renowned for its robust and aromatic characteristics. The scent profile of American cedar is deeply woodsy and resinous, with a distinctly warm, comforting aroma that blends earthy tones with subtle spicy highlights. Eastern Red Cedar, for instance, tends to emit a sharper, pungent aroma often associated with closet liners and cedar chests, which is famed for its moth-repelling qualities. This variety exhales a clean, forest-like fragrance with hints of sandalwood that becomes more pronounced with age or when the wood is freshly cut.
Western Red Cedar, on the other hand, offers a slightly different profile, leaning towards a rich, smoky scent mixed with an underlying balsamic sweetness. It too has a fresh, outdoorsy fragrance reminiscent of evergreen forests, which not only appeals aesthetically but also provides inherent properties that resist decay and repel insects.
Used in various applications, from building materials and fencing to essential oils and aromatherapy products, American cedar's aromatic profile makes it a favorite in crafting and home comfort, influencing spaces with its clean, sturdy scent that evokes a sense of calm and resilience.