Brown cedar mulch is a beautiful; aromatic ground cover. It is derived from trees such as western red cedar; eastern red cedar; and white cedar. Brown cedar mulch is a type of mulch made from shredded cedar wood that is dyed brown. It is a natural product that retains the brown color longer than hardwood mulch. Cedar mulch is used for water retention; weed inhibition; soil insulation; improving the look of beds; and repelling insects. It also prevents soil from splashing onto plants and causing fungus problems.