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Atlas Cedar

Cedrus atlantica

Also known as: Cedar of Atlas, Atlantic Cedar, Moroccan Cedar

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Atlas Cedar wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
620 lbf (2,758 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
480 kg/m³ (30 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.48
Type
Softwood
Grain
Usually straight
Texture
Fine and even
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood resistant to decay; aromatic oils repel insects
Region
Africa
Sustainability
Restricted — Vulnerable - native populations in Morocco and Algeria are protected; cultivated elsewhere

Overview

Atlas Cedar is an aromatic softwood from the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, prized for its insect-repelling properties and pleasant scent. Used for cedar chests, closet lining, and carving, it is one of the true cedars alongside Cedar of Lebanon.

Heartwood is light yellowish-brown to pale brown. Sapwood is narrow, cream to pale yellow. Density averages 480 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 620 lbf. Fine, even texture with usually straight grain. Contains aromatic oils that repel moths and insects.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Low - soft wood

Gluing

Good - may need care with oily surfaces

Finishing

Good - takes stain and finish well

Steam Bending

Moderate - can steam bend

Scent

Strong, pleasant cedar aroma - repels moths

Assessment

Strengths

  • Aromatic
  • Insect repellent
  • Easy to work
  • Lightweight
  • Attractive

Weaknesses

  • Limited availability
  • Can be knotty
  • Soft

Common Uses

Chests · Closet lining · Carving · Pencils · Decorative objects · Veneer