Wood isn’t just about strength and appearance. It’s also about scent. Certain wood species naturally emit distinctive aromas that add another sensory layer to your woodworking project. Fragrant woods create atmosphere and improve product appeal for furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, home accents, and much more.

Below, we’ll explore several of the most popular aromatic wood species used in North America, how they’re commonly used, and why the scent of wood might be more important than you think.

Aroma: Cedar is arguably the best-known aromatic wood. It has a clean, spicy scent that is both strong and refreshing. This creates a natural barrier against insects and mildew.

Uses: Popular for outdoor applications like decks, siding, and fencing, Western Red Cedar is also used in closets and lining boxes to keep spaces fresh. The scent not only pleases the nose. It serves a purpose.

Product Tip: If you need components that hold up outdoors while offering an added sensory experience, cedar is one of the best materials to work with.

Aroma: Cherry offers a subtle but sweet scent, especially when freshly milled. The fragrance is soft and warm, with a richness that is great for interior applications.

Uses: Often chosen for high-end cabinetry, home décor, and heirloom furniture, cherry’s combination of fragrance and smooth grain texture makes it a premium option.

Why It Sells: In luxury markets, the subtle aroma of cherry wood signals both craftsmanship and comfort to clientele.

Aroma: Hickory has a strong, smoky scent that’s both bold and balanced. It’s a favorite among those who want an earthy smell from their materials.

Uses: Known for its toughness, hickory is used for tool handles, cabinetry, furniture. It’s great for food prep skewers and smoking meats thanks to its culinary-safe properties.

Standout Factor: Durable enough for functional applications, but aromatic enough to work in both workshops and living spaces.

Aroma: Sapele has a smooth and slightly spicy scent. It’s somewhat subtler than cedar or walnut and adds just enough aroma to your space without overpowering it.

Uses: Ideal for musical instruments, luxury millwork, or fine furniture. It pairs great scent with distinctive grain patterns.

When to Use: When you want a premium look and just a hint of something extra in the air.

Looking to work with Sapele for your product(s)? We can help!

Aroma: Walnut’s aroma is warm, nutty, and rich. It’s mild but high-end.

Uses: This wood species is frequently chosen for upscale furniture, turned components, and musical instruments. It has both a beautiful scent and bold, dark grain that ages with style.

Premium Perception: Walnut unmistakably smells like quality.

When customers interact with your product, they aren’t just seeing or touching it, they’re also smelling it. That extra layer of sensory engagement can create a more immersive experience, spark nostalgia, or signal high-end luxury. In both home and commercial environments, the aroma of the wood can leave a lasting impression.

Fragrant wood species also provide functional benefits: insect resistance, calming psychological effects, and even improved air quality in enclosed spaces. For manufacturers, it’s a way to add value without adding cost.

At H. Arnold Wood Turning, we’ve been producing custom wooden components for over 100 years. This has been done for both low and high-volume orders of fragrant species like cedar, cherry, hickory, and walnut.

Whether you’re a business producing furniture or artisanal boxes, or a homeowner looking for architectural details that need to impress, we can help you select the right wood, finish, and volume for the job.

Reach out to us for a free, no-obligation quote today and let’s get started!