Cedar (Cedrela odorata)
Key Facts
Scientific Name: Cedrela odorata, commonly called Spanish Cedar.
Native Home: The tropical forests of Central and South America, including parts of the Amazon.
Height: Can grow up to 100 feet (30 meters) tall.
Lifespan: Can live for 100+ years under suitable conditions.
Uses and Harvesting
Timber: Produces lightweight, durable wood with a pleasant natural aroma.
Harvesting: Mature trees are selectively cut and processed into high-quality timber.
Age to Harvest: Usually harvested after around 20–40 years, depending on growing conditions.
Products: Used for furniture, doors, cabinets, cigar boxes, and musical instruments.
History and Global Production
Traditional Use: Indigenous communities have used Spanish Cedar for construction, tools, and traditional purposes.
Global Spread: It is now cultivated across tropical Asia, Africa, and the Americas for timber production.
