Elden Ring's Festive Tree Unveiled

Reddit user Independent-Design17 proposed a fascinating connection between Elden Ring's Erdtree and the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda. Superficial similarities are undeniable, particularly when comparing the in-game depiction of smaller Erdtrees. However, the parallels run deeper.

Elden Ring lore suggests the Erdtree guides the souls of the deceased, explaining the catacombs at its base. Intriguingly, Nuytsia floribunda holds similar spiritual significance in Australian Aboriginal culture. Each flowering branch represents a departed soul, and its vibrant colors are linked to the sunset, the believed destination of spirits.

Further strengthening the comparison is Nuytsia's semi-parasitic nature; it draws nutrients from neighboring plants. This resonates with fan theories suggesting the Erdtree is parasitic, having possibly usurped the life force of an ancient Great Tree. However, game text referencing a "Great Tree" is now understood to be a mistranslation, referring instead to the Erdtree's own extensive root system.

Ultimately, whether FromSoftware intentionally drew inspiration from Nuytsia floribunda remains a mystery known only to the developers.