Elden Fans Deck the Halls with Tree of Erd Lore

Reddit user Independent-Design17 proposed a fascinating connection between Elden Ring's Erdtree and the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda. While a surface-level resemblance, particularly between the smaller Erdtrees in the game and Nuytsia, is apparent, deeper thematic parallels have been noted by fans.

Elden Ring lore depicts the Erdtree guiding the souls of the deceased, reflected in the game's catacombs at its base. Intriguingly, Nuytsia holds similar spiritual significance in Australian Aboriginal culture, with its blossoms representing the souls of the departed and its vibrant color linked to the sunset, the perceived destination of spirits.

Image: reddit.com

Further fueling the comparison is Nuytsia's semi-parasitic nature; it draws sustenance from neighboring plants. This resonates with fan theories suggesting the Erdtree is parasitic, having potentially usurped the life force of an ancient Great Tree. However, recent analysis suggests that in-game references to a "Great Tree" might be a translation misinterpretation, 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.