Pomanders:  An Old Tradition at Christmas

The tradition of making and giving clove studded fruit, primarily citrus, at Christmastime goes back many centuries.  Citrus fruit; oranges, lemons, limes and tangerines were considered symbols of wealth and prosperity in ancient times and given as gifts to friends and family.

At this time of year we all bring our own family traditions to the season; if you are looking to begin a ‘new’ tradition with you family involving the children, this is a perfect project.  I remember making orange and clove pomanders using the oranges from the trees in our backyard, the fragrance was heavenly, but oh how my fingers hurt from pushing sharp cloves into the flesh of homegrown oranges.

I have found that using Clementine’s to be much easier and even small children can make them; you may want to use a thimble or band-aide to prevent soreness of tender fingers.  The process is simple and allows for some creativity on the part of the creator. 

Take your fruit and begin pushing the cloves into the flesh of the fruit close together in any pattern you like.  You might make patterns of stars, stripes or ribbons of swirls around the fruit.  Work you pattern until complete as once the fruit is pierced it will begin to dry and harden.  The finished piece will be fragrant and can be used in linen drawers or anywhere you want a fresh citrus fragrance.

Be sure to leave a small space at the stem and bottom of the fruit and push a stiff wire through the fruit if you want to hang the pomander as an ornament.  You can add ribbons and bells to really dress it up or just fill a bowl of decorated pomanders for fun.  You can even float the pomanders in your punch bowl for a special affect; they look glorious under candlelight.

These pretty pomanders make great hostess gifts and last minute gifts for family and friends and will last for years, prolonging the spirit of the season.