Names and distribution: Among the genus Cedrus, the Lebanon cedar is probably the most impressive species due to its impressive solitary trees. Cedrus libani is naturally distributed in the Tauris Mountains, Syria and Lebanon, where it is known as Katarani. Most of the previously closed forests there fell victim to the construction of the Egyptian and Greek fleets. Today, the Lebanon cedar is only found sporadically in the Middle East, while it has found its way into gardens and parks in Central Europe, especially in Switzerland and southern France. This is also where most of the wood that is sold comes from.
Wood appearance: whitish-light sapwood, slightly darker heartwood, late wood zones clearly defined, comparatively wide growth rings (trees from mountainous areas are rare). Velvety overall appearance. Decorative precious wood.
Properties: Cedar wood has a bulk density of around 0.38 t/m3 at 12% residual moisture. Swelling and shrinkage behavior is good, technical drying is unproblematic. Attractive surfaces can be created with all tools. Moderate hardness. Nevertheless, cedar wood has a high natural durability.
Uses: classic shipbuilding timber, furniture, interior fittings, dimensionally stable frames, musical instruments, also as split wood and extracted oil against moths and other insects.
| Sources: |
Gottwald (1970): Determination of the most important commercial timbers |
