Elden Ring's Tree of Erd Sparks Festive Comparisons

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

Elden Ring's lore depicts the Erdtree as a guide for the souls of the deceased, a concept reflected in the catacombs at its base. Intriguingly, Nuytsia floribunda holds similar spiritual significance in Australian Aboriginal culture, where its flowering branches represent the souls of the departed, and its vibrant color is linked to the sunset—the perceived destination of spirits.

Further strengthening this connection is Nuytsia's semi-parasitic nature. It thrives by drawing nutrients from neighboring plants. This mirrors a popular fan theory suggesting the Erdtree is parasitic, having allegedly usurped the life force of an ancient Great Tree. However, it's now understood that game descriptions referencing a "Great Tree" are mistranslations, actually referring 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.