Botanically, Cedro(Cedrela odorata) belongs to the Meliaceae family and is related to real mahogany. The genus Cedrela is distributed throughout Central and Latin America. The most common species is C. odorata, also known in Germany as Spanish cedar or Honduras cedar, officially: “fragrant cedar tree”. Less common is the heavier and less odorous Cedrela lilloi , which is found in Argentina. The wood of this species is reminiscent of light Swietenia varieties in terms of its density.
The name “Spanish cedar” is rather misleading, as it is neither a type of wood found in Spain nor a type of cedar(Cedrus spp.). Although the Anglophone term ‘Spanish Cedar’ has found its way into German wood species terminology, this should be avoided. This term probably originates from English pirates who captured Spanish ships in the 17th century with a corresponding cargo and subsequently referred to the stolen wood as “Spanish cedar”.
Heartwood pale yellowish brown to reddish brown, darkening in the light; sapwood light gray. Pores medium-sized, semi-ring-porous and hyalinized, often filled with dark contents, medullary rays very fine and irregularly arranged. Storage cells tangentially barely visible as fine bands. Grain predominantly straight, occasional twisted growth, fresh wood strongly aromatic, later slowly diminishing, overall plain.
Density of Cedrela odorata at 12% moisture content is 0.38 – 0.49 t/m3 depending on the area of origin and location. The shrinkage from the fresh state to HF 12% is specified as 5.6 % tangential and 3.8 % radial. Cedro can be dried quickly and easily. The wood has good stability.
Cedro can be processed with all tools without difficulty. Decorative and smooth surfaces can be created. Gluing and surface treatment like mahogany. There are occasional reports of mucous membrane irritation due to dust, but it is particularly valued for its aromatic smell, especially in the construction of cigar boxes (“humidores“). The wood is weatherproof.
| Sources: |
Wood Information Service 1976, Data Sheet No. 38 ATIBT 1990: Atlas de Maderas Tropicales de America Latina GOTTWALD, 1970: Wood identification of the most important commercial timbers |
