There is something wonderfully nostalgic about the scent of fresh oranges and cloves mingling in the air during the holidays. It’s a fragrance that feels both festive and familiar, evoking memories of childhood, tradition, and gatherings around the table.
This year, I wanted to take that classic scent and present it in a beautiful, sculptural way. The result is this holiday orange fruit topiary, made entirely of clove-studded pomander balls and fresh greenery.
This fragrant arrangement is a nod to the old-world tradition of orange pomanders, which were often gifted or used to scent homes during the colder months.
Here, I’ve turned that idea into a table centerpiece that feels fresh and elegant while still rooted in the warmth of holiday tradition. The topiary adds height and color to the table, and fills the entire room with the most beautiful seasonal scent.
This is a simple project, but one that feels impactful. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create something truly special for your holiday table or sideboard.
How to Make an Orange Fruit Topiary
Prepare the Orange Pomander Balls
Poke small holes into each orange to create your desired pattern.
Gently insert the cloves into the holes, forming decorative designs.
Set aside once all oranges are studded with cloves.
Build the Base of the Topiary
Thread two clove-decorated oranges onto a long bamboo stick.
This forms the base layer of your topiary structure.
Create the First Layer
Overlap pairs of oranges around the top of your vase or cake stand.
Adjust them so this first layer is as wide as the opening of your container.
Add the Second Layer
Repeat the process to build the second layer.
Thread the oranges slightly closer together so the shape starts to taper upward.
Shape the Top
For a more cone-like silhouette, thread three oranges together for the top layer.
Feel free to experiment with the number—each topiary has its own personality.
Finish the Top
Place a single orange at the very top using a long skewer or bamboo stick.
Add Greens and Berries
Tuck small pieces of boxwood or Christmas greens into any gaps between the oranges.
Add red berries for texture, fullness, and a festive pop of color.
Styling the Table Around Your Orange Topiary
This citrus topiary makes a beautiful centerpiece, and I styled the entire table around its vibrant colors and charming form. The woven silver cachepot added a touch of sparkle and paired well with the gold-rimmed stemware and chargers.
For the place settings, I chose red-rimmed plates layered with green and cream patterns that echoed the natural elements of the topiary. Each place setting was finished with a name card set atop a sprig of boxwood, tying the centerpiece back into each guest’s seat.
Gold flatware brought warmth to the table, while clear and amber glassware added height and visual interest. I used deep red velvet ties on the simple napkins, adding richness and depth to the setting. A pair of tall red taper candles in clear glass holders added the perfect amount of drama without overwhelming the table.
Everything about this table felt festive and personal, from the homemade topiary to the thoughtful layering of each piece.
There is so much joy in creating something beautiful with your hands, especially when it carries a sense of tradition and brings people together. This orange fruit topiary does just that. It’s festive, fresh, and full of fragrance, adding charm to any holiday setting. Whether used as a centerpiece, a welcoming arrangement in your entryway, or a gift for a friend who loves a handmade touch, it is sure to delight.
This is a piece that invites people to gather, to breathe in the season, and to celebrate the beauty in the details. I hope it brings a bit of joy and a lot of warmth to your holiday table.
For more holiday table inspiration, check out these posts:
Orange Fruit Topiary
Ingredients
Method
- Poke small holes into each orange to create your desired pattern.Gently insert the cloves into the holes, forming decorative designs.Set aside once all oranges are studded with cloves.
- Thread two clove-decorated oranges onto a long bamboo stick.This forms the base layer of your topiary structure.
- Overlap pairs of oranges around the top of your vase or cake stand.Adjust them so this first layer is as wide as the opening of your container.
- Repeat the process to build the second layer.Thread the oranges slightly closer together so the shape starts to taper upward.
- For a more cone-like silhouette, thread three oranges together for the top layer.Feel free to experiment with the number—each topiary has its own personality.
- Place a single orange at the very top using a long skewer or bamboo stick.
- Tuck small pieces of boxwood or Christmas greens into any gaps between the oranges.Add red berries for texture, fullness, and a festive pop of color.
