If you’re looking to grow citrus indoors, you’ve got eight excellent options for 2025. The Calamondin tree offers year-round blooms and fruit, while the compact Blood Orange tree brings unique color to your space. Valencia and Nules Clementine starters are perfect for beginners, producing sweet, juicy fruits. Consider the hardy Satsuma Mandarin two-pack for reliable growth, or try your hand at Bonsai Orange trees from seeds. The Mandarin Orange seed variety adapts well to indoor conditions, and LED artificial trees provide a maintenance-free alternative. Each variety comes with specific care requirements that’ll determine your success as an indoor citrus gardener.
Key Takeaways
- Calamondin trees are ideal for indoor growing due to their compact size, year-round fruit production, and easy maintenance requirements.
- Valencia orange trees thrive indoors with proper light conditions and produce sweet, juicy fruits perfect for fresh juice.
- Satsuma Mandarin trees are hardy, quick-growing, and produce sweet, less acidic fruits ideal for small indoor spaces.
- Nules Clementine trees grow well indoors, reaching 8 feet tall and producing seedless fruits with consistent care.
- Indoor orange trees require 8-12 hours of bright light daily and temperatures between 65-75°F for optimal growth.
Calamondin Tree Live Plants by Via Citrus
- VERSATILE INDOOR CITRUS PLANT: Our calamondin tree live plant is a hybrid of mandarin orange and kumquat tree, ideal for compact spaces like apartments. Great as an indoor citrus tree, it boasts lush...
- SWEET-SOUR FRUIT WITH MULTIPLE USES: Enjoy the unique taste of calamansi fruit or calamondin citrus fruit. The sweet peel and tart flesh are ideal for desserts, jams, and even cocktails. As a live...
- NATURAL AIR FRESHENER: The Via Citrus calamondin citrus plant offers more than just beauty—it continuously blooms with fragrant, star-shaped flowers. This refreshing citrus scent adds a natural...
For plant lovers living in tight spaces, the Calamondin Tree by Via Citrus offers a perfect blend of form and function. This charming hybrid of mandarin orange and kumquat thrives indoors, producing fragrant white flowers and bright orange fruit throughout the year. You’ll enjoy its compact size, which fits perfectly in apartments and small homes while still making a striking visual impact.
You don’t need a green thumb to grow this versatile citrus tree. It’s easy to maintain with basic sunlight requirements, making it ideal if you’re busy or new to indoor gardening. The tree’s sweet-sour fruits are perfect for cooking – use them in desserts, jams, or creative cocktails. While you can’t get this Florida-grown beauty shipped to CA, AZ, TX, or LA, customers in other states consistently praise its health and liveliness upon arrival.
Best For: Home gardeners and cooking enthusiasts living in apartments or small spaces who want a decorative, functional citrus plant that’s easy to maintain and produces year-round fruit.
Pros:
- Compact size makes it perfect for indoor growing in small spaces while providing both ornamental beauty and edible fruit
- Low maintenance requirements and adaptability make it suitable for beginners and busy plant owners
- Multi-functional plant offering fragrant flowers, air-purifying benefits, and culinary uses throughout the year
Cons:
- Cannot be shipped to several major states (CA, AZ, TX, LA) due to agricultural restrictions
- Limited to indoor growing in most regions, which may affect fruit production compared to outdoor cultivation
- Requires consistent access to sunlight, which might be challenging in some indoor environments
Bonsai Orange Tree Seeds for Growing Fruit Trees
- CITRUS BONSAI TREE SEEDS: Easy to Grow Orange Tree Seeds. Grow as Bonsai or for food.
- UNIQUE PLANTS: Turn heads with this fast grower. Tasty Edible Fruit.
- GROWING TIPS: Sew 1/2 deep in good organic soil. Keep the seed bed moist while the plants germinate.
Aspiring bonsai enthusiasts will find CZ Grain’s orange tree seed kit an accessible entry point into growing miniature citrus trees. With 20 seeds per package, you’ll have multiple chances to successfully grow your own fruit-bearing bonsai. These seeds are versatile enough for both ornamental bonsai creation and traditional fruit production.
To get started, you’ll need to plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep in high-quality organic soil. CZ Grain recommends using either their own soil mix or Fox Farms Ocean Forest Soil for peak results. While some gardeners report mixed success with germination, you can improve your chances by maintaining consistent soil moisture throughout the sprouting period. The manufacturer backs their product with a satisfaction guarantee, so you can purchase with confidence despite the varied customer experiences reflected in its 3.0-star rating.
Best For: Gardening enthusiasts and bonsai hobbyists who want to experiment with growing miniature citrus trees from seeds and don’t mind some trial and error in the germination process.
Pros:
- Includes 20 seeds providing multiple growing attempts
- Versatile for both bonsai and traditional fruit tree growing
- Comes with satisfaction guarantee from manufacturer
Cons:
- Mixed germination success rates according to customer reviews
- Average 3.0-star rating suggests inconsistent results
- Requires specific soil types and careful moisture maintenance for best results
Brighter Blooms Blood Orange Tree (1-2 ft)
- Homegrown Flavorful, Juicy Oranges, Famous for their distinctive aftertaste, similar to raspberry or strawberry, Blood Orange Trees offer unique, delectable fruit, And since they're easy to grow at...
- Delivering Nature's Joy: From large, high-impact trees and reliable, versatile shrubs to tropical fruits, rare house and patio plants and much more, our varieties provide the garden solutions you need
- Ready For Gardeners of All Levels: No matter where you're at in your planting journey, what your yard looks like or what you're dreaming it will look like, we've got you covered
Gardeners seeking a unique citrus experience will find the Brighter Blooms Blood Orange Tree an intriguing choice for indoor growing. This compact 1-2 ft tree produces distinctive oranges with a raspberry-like aftertaste that you won’t find in typical citrus fruits. It’s perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners who want to harvest their own fruit at home.
Before you order, there are important considerations to keep in mind. The tree isn’t available for shipping to several southern states including Arizona, Florida, and Texas. While customer reviews are mixed at 3.7 out of 5 stars, many growers report success with healthy plants that arrive well-packaged. You’ll appreciate this tree’s manageable size for indoor growing, though you should be prepared for some variation in the plant’s initial appearance. Remember to check if your state allows shipping before making your purchase.
Best For: Home gardeners and citrus enthusiasts who want to grow unique indoor citrus trees and have space for container gardening in states where shipping is permitted.
Pros:
- Produces distinctive blood oranges with unique raspberry-like flavor notes
- Compact size (1-2 ft) makes it suitable for indoor growing
- Easy to grow and maintain, making it accessible for gardeners of all experience levels
Cons:
- Significant shipping restrictions prevent delivery to multiple southern states
- Mixed customer reviews regarding plant size and condition upon arrival
- Lack of included printed planting instructions may challenge new gardeners
LIGHTSHARE 6FT LED Artificial Maple Tree
- Lighted maple tree with 120 warm white lights, natural looking maple leaves and brown finish trunk, patent protection.
- Consolidus Base is much more stable than cross stand, which makes the maple tree sturdy and unique.
- Assembled height is 6ft., plug-in to use with UL listed power supply.
Those seeking a maintenance-free alternative to live indoor trees will find the LIGHTSHARE 6FT LED Artificial Maple Tree an elegant solution. At 6 feet tall with 120 warm white LED lights, it creates a cozy autumn ambiance in any room. You’ll appreciate its realistic yellow maple leaves and natural-looking brown trunk, which add warmth to your space without the hassle of watering or pruning.
The tree’s versatility makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. You’ll find it easy to assemble, and its Consolidus Base provides reliable stability. When you’re done using it, simply knock it down from the middle for convenient storage. With a 4.7-star rating from over 3,000 reviews, it’s clear that homeowners love its lightweight design and warm glow. For ideal display, you can adjust the branches to achieve your desired fullness and shape.
Best For: This artificial maple tree is best for homeowners and event planners who want a maintenance-free, year-round decorative lighting solution that creates a warm autumn ambiance without the upkeep of real plants.
Pros:
- Easy assembly and storage with knock-down design
- Versatile use for both indoor and outdoor settings with included stakes
- High customer satisfaction with 4.7/5 stars from over 3,000 reviews
Cons:
- Branches may shift in windy conditions when used outdoors
- Some customers report the tree appears less full than expected
- Limited to one color option (yellow leaves) which may not suit all décor preferences
Valencia Orange Tree Starter Plant. Citrus sinensis. 3 – 5
Indoor citrus enthusiasts looking for a productive juice orange will find the Valencia Orange Tree Starter Plant an excellent choice. This compact starter, measuring just 3-5 inches tall, is the same variety that produces most of America’s orange juice. You’ll appreciate its versatility, as it can thrive both indoors and outdoors in zones 9-11.
While you’re waiting for fruits to develop (which typically takes about three years), you’ll need to provide the right growing conditions. Give your Valencia plenty of natural light or supplement with UV bulbs if you’re growing it indoors. Plant it in sandy soil and maintain moderate watering levels. The tree grows quickly, and you’ll notice significant size increases within weeks. For indoor success, consider placing it in a greenhouse setting or near a bright window. Each plant comes carefully wrapped in bubble wrap, ensuring it arrives at your door in perfect condition.
Best For: Home gardeners and citrus enthusiasts who want to grow their own juice oranges either indoors or outdoors in warm climates, and are willing to wait for fruit production.
Pros:
- Quick initial growth rate with noticeable size increases within weeks
- Versatile growing options (indoor, outdoor, or greenhouse)
- Same high-quality variety used in commercial orange juice production
Cons:
- Long wait time (approximately 3 years) before fruit production begins
- Requires specific growing conditions including sandy soil and proper UV light exposure
- Limited to USDA zones 9-11 for outdoor growing, requiring indoor accommodation in colder regions
Nules Clementine Starter Plant. Citrus Clementina. 3 – 5
Space-conscious citrus enthusiasts will find the Nules Clementine Starter Plant ideal for their home gardens. This compact hybrid mandarin, reaching up to 8 feet at maturity, thrives both indoors and outdoors in Zone 8 climates. You’ll appreciate its glossy green leaves and sweet, seedless fruits that are incredibly easy to peel.
When growing your Nules Clementine indoors, you’ll need to provide it with full sun exposure or supplement with UV grow lights. The plant adapts well to clay soil and shows impressive growth rates, with noticeable size increases within weeks. It’s a low-maintenance choice that doesn’t require extensive pruning and stays relatively pest-free. Your starter plant arrives at 3-5 inches tall, well-rooted and ready to flourish under proper care. With an average rating of 4.0 stars from 40 customers, you can trust this Gerald Winters and Son variety to perform reliably in your indoor garden.
Best For: Home gardeners and citrus enthusiasts looking for a compact, low-maintenance fruit tree that can be grown both indoors and outdoors in temperate climates.
Pros:
- Versatile growing options with both indoor and outdoor capability
- Low maintenance requirements with minimal pruning and pest resistance
- Produces sweet, seedless, easy-to-peel fruits once mature
Cons:
- Limited cold hardiness requires indoor growing in colder regions
- Requires supplemental UV grow lights for optimal indoor growth
- Initial size is quite small (3-5 inches) requiring patience for growth and fruiting
Satsuma Mandarin Tree Starter Plants (2 Pack)
- 2 plants in a single pot.
For gardeners seeking a compact citrus option, the Satsuma Mandarin Tree Starter Plants offer an ideal entry point into indoor orange growing. Standing just 3-5 inches tall initially, these well-rooted plants from Gerald Winters and Son come in a convenient two-pack that’s perfect for beginners.
You’ll need to start these trees indoors under UV grow lights for the first year. The plants are hardy and quick-growing – you’ll notice significant growth within weeks of planting. When caring for your Satsuma, remember these key points:
- Place in sandy soil with moderate watering
- Gradually expose to direct sunlight
- Expect winter blooming
- Can reach up to 8 feet at maturity
- Suitable for USDA zone 3
These semi-seedless citrus trees have a rich history dating back to Japan’s Edo period, and they’re now cultivated successfully throughout the U.S., particularly in Gulf Coast states.
Best For: Home gardeners and citrus enthusiasts who want to try growing indoor citrus trees from small specimens, particularly those interested in a manageable-sized tree that produces sweet, easy-to-peel fruit.
Pros:
- Comes as a two-pack of healthy, well-rooted plants that show quick growth
- Compact initial size makes it ideal for starting indoors
- Rich history and proven track record of successful cultivation in the US
Cons:
- Requires specific first-year care with UV grow lights
- Takes patience as plants start very small at 3-5 inches
- Needs careful attention to sunlight exposure with gradual introduction
Mandarin Orange Tree Seeds for Bonsai and Outdoor Planting
- 20+ Mandarin Orange Tree Seeds Dwarf Edible Fruit Citrus Fruit Plant Outdoor Plants Bonsai; USDA Zone: 6-11
- Citrus reticulata Blanco is commonly referred to as Mandarin Orange Tree. Mandarin fruit are smaller and less spherical than normal oranges. They are also easier to peel and not as acidic.
- Usually peeled and eaten fresh by itself, in salads, or in desserts. Juice and frozen concentrate is a very desired drink in various parts of the world, including the United States.
Growing mandarin oranges from seeds offers both bonsai enthusiasts and home gardeners a rewarding project, with trees reaching a manageable height of 3 meters. These GMO-free Citrus reticulata Blanco seeds can thrive in USDA zones 6-11, adapting well to both outdoor and indoor environments.
You’ll find these trees are surprisingly versatile and relatively low-maintenance. They’re drought tolerant and produce sweet, easy-to-peel fruit that’s less acidic than traditional oranges. While they need full sun to partial shade, they don’t do well in extreme cold or intense heat. For best results, provide moderate watering and expect blooming during winter months. However, be aware that customer experiences have been mixed, with the seeds receiving a 3.0-star rating. Some gardeners report germination issues, so you might want to plant multiple seeds to increase your success rate.
Best For: Gardening enthusiasts and bonsai hobbyists who want to try growing citrus trees either indoors or outdoors in moderate climates and are willing to be patient with the growing process.
Pros:
- Versatile growing options for both indoor bonsai and outdoor planting
- Produces sweet, easy-to-peel fruits that have multiple culinary and aromatic uses
- Drought-tolerant and relatively low-maintenance once established
Cons:
- Poor customer ratings (3.0/5) with multiple reports of germination issues
- Not cold-hardy and requires protection from extreme temperatures
- Mixed reviews about seed quality and quantity received in packages
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Orange Tree for Indoors
When you’re ready to bring an orange tree indoors, you’ll need to evaluate several key factors that will affect your success. Your available growing space and light conditions are essential starting points, since citrus trees need plenty of room to grow and at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. You’ll also want to take into account your climate control capabilities, how much time you can dedicate to maintenance, and whether fruit production is a priority for your indoor growing project.
Available Growing Space
Before bringing home an orange tree, sizing up your available indoor space is essential for success. You’ll need to evaluate both horizontal and vertical dimensions to guarantee your tree has enough room to thrive without overwhelming the space.
For compact areas, you can’t go wrong with varieties like the Calamondin or Nules Clementine. These trees adapt well to container growing and won’t take up too much space in your home. If you’ve got more room to work with, consider a Satsuma Mandarin, which can reach heights of up to 8 feet when properly maintained.
Remember to factor in these key spatial considerations:
- Ceiling height and any overhead obstacles
- Floor space for the pot’s footprint
- Room for branch spread as the tree matures
- Space for air circulation around the tree
- Access for maintenance and harvesting
Your chosen pot size will also impact the tree’s overall footprint. Select a container that provides adequate drainage and room for root growth, but don’t go oversized – a pot that’s too large can lead to soil moisture issues. When in doubt, opt for dwarf varieties or those specifically bred for indoor growing.
Light Requirements
Just as important as finding the right space is confirming your indoor orange tree receives adequate light. Your tree needs 8-12 hours of bright light daily to produce healthy growth and delicious fruit. To meet these requirements, you’ll want to carefully plan your lighting strategy.
The best placement for your indoor orange tree is near south-facing windows, where it’ll get the most direct sunlight throughout the day. If you don’t have ideal window placement or live in an area with limited winter sunlight, you’ll need to supplement with UV grow lights. These artificial light sources can provide the necessary exposure your tree needs to thrive year-round.
To maintain healthy growth:
- Rotate your tree every few weeks to confirm all sides receive equal light
- Watch for warning signs of insufficient light, such as dropping leaves or leggy stems
- Position grow lights at appropriate heights above the canopy
- Consider using light meters to monitor exposure levels
- Adjust placement seasonally as sun patterns change
Climate Control Needs
Successful growth of an indoor orange tree depends heavily on maintaining the right climate conditions throughout the year. You’ll need to create a consistent environment that mimics your tree’s natural habitat to guarantee healthy growth and abundant fruit production.
Temperature control is your primary concern. Keep your indoor space between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C) for best results. You’ll want to avoid placing your tree near:
- Drafty windows or doors
- Air conditioning vents
- Heating units
- Areas with frequent temperature swings
Humidity management is equally important. Since most homes have relatively dry air, you’ll need to maintain humidity levels between 40-60%. Consider these effective solutions:
- Using a humidity tray filled with pebbles and water
- Running a humidifier nearby
- Misting leaves regularly during dry seasons
If you’re growing your orange tree in zones 6-11, pay extra attention to temperature stability during seasonal changes. Remember that sudden environmental shifts can stress your tree and affect its fruit production. Regular monitoring of both temperature and humidity will help you catch potential issues before they become problems.
Maintenance Time Commitment
While many potential indoor gardeners worry about the time demands of growing citrus, indoor orange trees actually require surprisingly little maintenance throughout the year. You’ll find that basic care routines can easily fit into your busy schedule, taking just a few minutes each week.
The weekly care routine is straightforward and efficient:
- Water checking: 2-3 minutes to test soil moisture
- Leaf dusting: 5 minutes every other week
- Visual inspection: 2-3 minutes to check for issues
Your seasonal tasks won’t overwhelm you either. You’ll need to:
- Apply fertilizer 3-4 times annually
- Prune lightly once or twice a year
- Adjust temperature settings seasonally
- Repot every 2-3 years
What makes indoor orange trees particularly time-friendly is their natural resistance to common garden problems. You won’t spend hours fighting pests or treating diseases, as these trees typically stay healthy with minimal intervention. Even if you’re new to indoor gardening or have a packed schedule, you can expect to spend less than 30 minutes per month on routine care. This makes indoor orange trees an ideal choice for gardeners who want maximum results with minimum time investment.
Fruit Production Goals
Beyond the manageable time commitment, setting realistic fruit production goals should guide your indoor orange tree selection. You’ll need to understand that most indoor orange trees, like the Valencia variety, require about three years before they’ll produce their first fruits. During this waiting period, you can focus on creating ideal growing conditions for your tree.
When choosing your indoor orange tree, consider these key production factors:
- Select dwarf or bonsai varieties specifically bred for container growing. They’ll give you edible fruit while fitting perfectly in your space.
- Check the tree’s pollination requirements before buying. Some varieties need cross-pollination, which can be tricky indoors. Self-pollinating varieties will make your life easier.
- Understand that indoor trees typically produce smaller harvests than their outdoor counterparts. A well-maintained indoor tree might give you a modest but satisfying crop.
- Match your tree’s needs to your home environment. Your success depends on providing adequate light, maintaining proper humidity, and creating consistent growing conditions. This alignment will help maximize your fruit yield, even in an indoor setting.
Soil and Watering Needs
Proper soil composition and watering practices form the foundation of a thriving indoor orange tree. You’ll want to start with well-draining sandy soil that maintains a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Using quality organic soil mix helps guarantee your tree gets the nutrients it needs while promoting healthy root development.
When it comes to watering, you’ll need to strike the right balance. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Water your indoor orange tree every 7-10 days as a general rule
- Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings
- Adjust your schedule based on room temperature and humidity
- Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged
- Check soil moisture regularly with your finger or moisture meter
The key is maintaining consistent moisture without overdoing it. Root rot is a common issue with indoor citrus, but you can prevent it by avoiding soggy conditions. You’ll know you’re on the right track when the soil feels like a wrung-out sponge – damp but not wet. If you’re unsure, it’s better to underwater slightly than to overwater, as orange trees can recover more easily from brief dry spells.
Pest Resistance Levels
Selecting an orange tree variety with strong pest resistance can make the difference between a thriving indoor citrus and a constant battle against invaders. You’ll want to prioritize varieties that naturally ward off common household pests, with Satsuma mandarins leading the pack for their exceptional resilience against aphids and spider mites.
To maximize your tree’s pest-fighting abilities, you’ll need a thorough approach:
- Monitor your tree weekly for early signs of pest activity
- Maintain proper humidity levels to discourage spider mites
- Consider introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs
- Keep soil healthy with proper drainage and nutrients
- Create a diverse environment with companion plants
You can boost your tree’s natural defenses by implementing smart preventive measures. Begin with clean, sterilized pots and high-quality soil mix. Position your tree where air circulation is good but away from drafts. Regular pruning helps remove potential pest hideouts while improving airflow through the canopy. When you do spot unwanted visitors, start with the gentlest control methods first, such as a strong water spray or insecticidal soap, before considering stronger treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take for Indoor Orange Trees to Produce Fruit?
You’ll need patience when growing indoor orange trees, as they typically take 3-5 years to start producing fruit from the time you plant them. If you’ve purchased a mature tree, you might see fruit within the first year. The fruiting timeline depends on your care routine – consistent watering, proper lighting, and maintaining temperatures between 55-85°F will help your tree produce fruit faster. Most indoor citrus trees fruit once yearly.
Can Indoor Orange Trees Survive in Air-Conditioned Rooms?
You might think air conditioning and citrus trees are natural enemies, but your indoor orange tree can actually thrive in a climate-controlled room with the right care. You’ll need to maintain temperatures between 55-85°F and guarantee proper humidity levels. Place a humidity tray beneath your tree or run a humidifier nearby, as AC can dry out the air. Don’t place your tree directly in front of air vents, as cold drafts can shock the plant.
Do Indoor Orange Trees Attract Pests More Than Outdoor Ones?
Indoor orange trees don’t necessarily attract more pests than outdoor ones, but they’re often more vulnerable to certain invaders. You’ll typically encounter spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs in indoor environments. These pests thrive in the consistent temperatures and still air of your home. While outdoor trees face natural predators that help control pest populations, you’ll need to be more vigilant with indoor citrus by regularly inspecting leaves and treating issues promptly.
How Often Should Indoor Orange Trees Be Repotted?
While you might think indoor orange trees need frequent repotting, they actually don’t. You’ll only need to repot your indoor citrus every 2-3 years. Watch for signs it’s time: roots growing through drainage holes, water draining too quickly, or slowed growth. When you do repot, choose a container that’s just 2-3 inches larger than the current one. Spring’s the best time to repot, as your tree’s actively growing then.
Can Multiple Indoor Orange Varieties Be Cross-Pollinated Successfully?
Yes, you can cross-pollinate different indoor orange varieties, but you’ll need compatible citrus types that flower at the same time. Most orange trees are self-pollinating, but cross-pollination often leads to better fruit production. You’ll get the best results when crossing similar citrus varieties, like Valencia with Navel oranges. To help with pollination, you can use a small paintbrush to transfer pollen between flowers during blooming season.
