This is commonly done, one's I bought a cherry tree, when taking out of the pot, the soil fall off and I only one pruned tap root...it didn't grow, got a replacement next year. The garden center changed their way of doing this, now after they pot these pruned bare root trees from nurseries, they let it grow a month or so in the greenhouse to see if it takes. Bare root is always better when planting in spring, what is nice on a potted tree, you can plant it mid summer.

I generally think its ok to get trees this late, just be vigilant about pruning any spiraling roots and definitely plant them in the ground ASAP. Consider staking them (just for the winter) as they wont have much if any chance of growing new roots to hold them in soil.

Meyermike, there are oval kumquats (Nagami) and round ones (Meiwa). I prefer the Nagami. The ever popular 'Calamondin' (those small 'orange' trees you frequently see for sale, are actually, most likely, a hybrid (kumquat x madarin (I believe). The Calamondin itself is a great little tree. The advantage over the kumquat is that its flowers are very fragrant. The one thing I miss with the kumquats is the sweet, orange fragrance. The Calamondin too has culinary uses. I have used Calamondin as a secret ingredient in some dishes and the flavor it imparts is distinct and quite agreeable. Still, kumquats are even easier and more trouble-free as houseplants or indoor/outdoor trees in the North. (My citrus will soon be coming into bloom now. Start in February and peak in early to mid April.--I can't wait!)

Those are pretty pricey, and no indication as to cultivar. There are many different "orange tree "cultivars. Plus, folks should know that citrus in this area is under quarantine, so you can't move it out of this general area. I wouldn't waste time with this ebay seller, personally. I'd buy an inspected and treated tree from a known garden center or citrus grower. You'll get a known cultivar, known rootstock, treated, inspected and for less money. We have many great choices in S. California for places to go, to buy great citrus trees. Just my opinion. Patty S.