Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a fresh orange holiday topiary using clementines/mandarin oranges, greenery, and festive accents. This is an edible and fragrant decoration that will be perfect for both your Thanksgiving and Christmas table.
Growing up in West Virginia, we always received boxes of oranges from friends/family that lived in Florida. It’s funny that now I live in Florida haha. We are known for our delicious citrus here, whether it be a traditional Navel or a Red Ruby Grapefruit. I love grabbing an orange and either just peeling it and eating it or squeezing the larger ones and making fresh juice. My kids to this day, still love getting a bag of those “cutie” mandarin oranges for snacks.
Supplies Needed
Whole oranges or clementines
Green Cone Styrofoam
Wooden Dowel (optional)
Decorative Container
Toothpicks
Fresh Greenery
Holiday Accents
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Instructions
Prepare the Base
1. Insert the floral foam cone snugly into a pot or bowl.
2. Push the wooden dowel (if using) firmly into the center of the foam cone (leave 2-3 inches exposed above).
Attach the Oranges
1. Start at the bottom of the cone.
2. Pierce each orange with a toothpick (half in orange, half sticking out).
3. Press the toothpick into the foam sphere, continuing with each orange around the bottom base—oranges should touch each other.
4. Work in circles (upward), rotating the cone as you go.
Add the Greenery
1. Tuck pine/cedar sprigs between oranges, pushing stems into the foam.
2. Focus on gaps and the base of the cone for a natural look.
3. Let some greenery spill over the pot/bowl edge.
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Decorate with Accents
1. Hot glue small pinecones onto toothpicks, then insert between oranges.
2. Add red berries or mini red ornaments the same way.
3. Tie a festive ribbon bow around the pot or attach it to the top orange.
Pretty Touches
- Lightly mist oranges with water daily to keep them fresh.
- Display in a cool spot (away from heat vents/radiators).
- Optional: Dust with cinnamon or clove powder for yummy warm scent.
TIPS
- If foam shows, cover with extra greenery.
- Add a Star Anise on the top along with ribbon as a tree topper.
- Longer lasting? Use cloved oranges (stud with whole cloves in patterns) before attaching.
- Double ball topiary? Stack a smaller foam sphere on top of the first (secure with dowel). You might need to use some small stones to weigh it down in the bowl or pot it sits in. You can even use larger Navel oranges.
Expected Lifespan
- 3–5 days (indoors, room temp). I like to make this a few days before and then on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, we pull the oranges from the tree.
- Up to 10 days (if kept cool and misted). Just take a spray bottle and lightly mist the tree.
Simple Living Tip: Keep your counter or kitchen island decorated with a simple bowl of fresh oranges and cedar sprigs. It will smell amazing and guests can just grab the oranges along with pulling from the tree.
Items Used in This DIY
Oranges (clementines/mandarin)
Faux or Fresh Cedar Sprigs
How to Dry Orange Slices
Alternatively, dry fresh oranges into orange slices. Place them all over your home – on wreaths, garland, in bowls and more!
I hope you feel inspired to make this simple fresh orange holiday topiary for your table. It’s not expensive at all and the fact that you can consume the oranges afterwards is a bonus. Save the foam and decorative accents for next year. If you make one, I’d love to see it! Tag me over on Instagram and share to Pinterest.
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