Last year, oranges inspired my entire holiday look… it kind of became my theme to insert dehydrated oranges and pops of the cheery hue throughout each vignette. I think there’s something timeless about decorating with oranges during the holidays. Maybe it’s the fresh scent, the happy color, or the nostalgic connection to traditional pomanders. This year, I decided to attempt a classic topiary centerpiece for an early holiday brunch I pulled together. It’s simple, elegant, and adds just the right amount of height and color to your table or mantel. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to create your own orange topiary centerpiece that looks as beautiful as it smells.
If you missed the full table setting and would like sources, check it out here- how to style a holiday brunch table. I used all of my favorite essentials… plus new stoneware dishes I grabbed for the cabin.
Why Orange Pomanders Make Perfect Holiday Decor
Pomanders are one of those traditions that feel both festive and grand. I didn’t have any cloves on hand, but you could easily poke some into your oranges for an even more fragrant version. Using oranges for your topiary elevates this nostalgic idea into something sculptural that smells of citrus. It’s a centerpiece that looks custom and elevated, rather than crafty. Here’s why I’ll definitely make more of these:
- The citrus fragrance makes your home smell really nice… and would be even better with cloves- I’m definitely doing that next time!
- The vibrant orange color layers beautifully with greenery and metallic accents (really feeling silver again this season).
- The topiary format adds height and texture to your tablescape.
- It’s a sustainable, natural decor option that can transition beautifully from Thanksgiving through Christmas.
What You’ll Need to Make an Orange Topiary
- Fresh, firm oranges (you can also use tangerines or clementines)
- Cloves (optional, but I’d definitely add them next time)
- Toothpicks or skewers
- Floral foam cone
- Fresh or faux greenery (like cedar, ruscus, or pine)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Oranges
Wash and dry your fruit thoroughly. A clean, dry surface helps extend the life of your topiary. I used 3 bags of tangerines for this, by the way. It takes more than you’d expect!
Step 2: Assemble the Topiary
Attach your oranges to the foam cone with skewers or toothpicks. I like to start with the smallest fruit at the top and work toward the base… this creates a natural, tapered silhouette.
Step 3: Add Greenery & Finishing Touches
Tuck in greenery for texture and to hide any visible foam. Additionally, you could tie a ribbon around the base or at the top of your topiary and add any finishing touches you’d like. It’s really that easy.
Styling Ideas
I obviously made this orange topiary for my holiday brunch tablescape, but these could be used in so many fun ways! Here are some more areas you could style these:
- On a dining room sideboard or buffet.
- On a coffee table.
- On the mantel (although heat could be an issue, if you’re looking to extend the life of your topiary).
- On an entry table.
- On the kitchen island.
For a cohesive look, repeat citrus elements elsewhere- think small bowls of oranges on your bar or entry console.
How to Keep Your Orange Topiary Fresh
Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat… cooler spaces help it last longer. Rotate the topiary occasionally so it dries evenly. If a fruit softens or molds, replace it with a new orange. Cloves would help preserve the citrus naturally, so your arrangement can easily last a couple weeks.
FAQ
Yes! clementines and tangerines work beautifully. Just be sure they’re firm and fresh.
Typically 1-3 weeks if kept cool and dry.
Absolutely… I made mine a few days before my holiday brunch. If you’re worried, you can keep it in the fridge beforehand.
You can. When the season ends, remove the dried fruit and save the foam and planter for next year’s decor.
I grabbed Israeli ruscus from Trader Joe’s… it’s inexpensive, last a long time, and worked well to cover the foam- plus it resembles orange leaves.
More Posts with Orange Holiday Ideas
Looking for more holiday decorating ideas and posts that include oranges? I’m going to link a few favorites for you below… these would be beautifully cohesive with this topiary! They’re worth saving or pinning…
- Christmas Tour: Styling the Entryway for the Holidays
- Christmas Tour: the Holiday Decorated Living Room
- Christmas Tour: My Holiday Home Office
- Christmas Tour: Decorating the Kitchen for the Holidays
- 20 Ways to Decorate with Ribbon This Holiday Season
- Timeless Holiday Greenery You’ll Use Every Year
This little DIY captures everything I love about holiday decorating… a fun and festive activity, texture, fragrance, and a classic aesthetic. Whether you make one for your table, your mantel, or a friend, it’s an easy way to add warmth and nostalgia to your home this holiday season. The scent of oranges and cloves instantly feels like Christmas morning. I hope you give it a try and put your own spin on it this season- be sure to tag me! I want to make more.
The post How to Make an Orange Topiary Centerpiece for the Holidays appeared first on Room For Tuesday.
