Cedar pencil refers to various species of trees that are known for their wood, which is commonly used for making pencils. These trees belong to the families Araliaceae and Cupressaceae. Let’s explore some of the different types of cedar pencils and their characteristics.
1. African Pencil Cedar (Juniperus procera):
– The African pencil cedar, also known as East African juniper, is a species of juniper tree.
– It is native to the highlands of East Africa and is highly valued for its durable and fragrant wood.
– The wood of this tree is often used in pencil manufacturing due to its fine grain and light color.
2. Bermudan Pencil Cedar (Juniperus bermudiana):
– The Bermudan pencil cedar, or Bermuda cedar, is another species of juniper tree.
– It is endemic to Bermuda and is one of the few native trees found on the island.
– The wood of this tree has a distinctive reddish-brown color and is highly prized for its beauty and durability.
3. Black Pencil Cedar (Polyscias elegans):
– The black pencil cedar, also known as the silver dollar plant, is a species of tree in the Araliaceae family.
– It is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia and is known for its shiny, dark green leaves.
– While not specifically used for making pencils, the term “black pencil cedar” may sometimes be used to refer to this tree due to its resemblance to the wood used in pencils.
These different species of trees offer unique characteristics that make their wood suitable for pencil production. The African and Bermudan pencil cedars provide durable and aromatic wood, while the black pencil cedar showcases beautiful foliage.
In my personal experience with cedar pencils, I have found that they often have a distinct fragrance, especially when freshly sharpened. The smoothness of the wood also makes writing or drawing with these pencils a pleasant experience. The natural colors of cedar wood can vary, adding a touch of warmth to the pencil’s appearance.
It is important to note that while cedar pencils are popular and widely used, there are also pencils made from other types of wood, such as spruce, pine, and fir. Each wood type has its own unique characteristics and may vary in terms of hardness, grain pattern, and fragrance.
To summarize, cedar pencil refers to pencils made from the wood of various cedar tree species, including African pencil cedar, Bermudan pencil cedar, and sometimes the black pencil cedar. These trees offer different qualities and contribute to the overall appeal and functionality of cedar pencils.
