Eastern Red Cedar, technically a juniper, is a small-sized, slow-growing forest tree, is common to the poor, dry soils of the lower Hudson Valley. It is found growing only in open woods and pastures where plenty of sunlight is obtained. It is largely used in the manufacture of pencils, cedar chests, cabinet work, and interior finish. As a post wood, it has few superiors.
Source: Cornell University – Juniperus virginiana Linnaeus