Reddit user Independent-Design17 proposed a fascinating connection between Elden Ring's Erdtree and the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda. Superficial similarities exist, particularly between the game's smaller Erdtrees and the Nuytsia. However, the parallels run deeper.
Elden Ring lore guides the souls of the deceased to the Erdtree, explaining the catacombs at its base. Interestingly, Nuytsia holds similar spiritual significance in Australian Aboriginal culture. Each flowering branch represents a departed soul, and its vibrant color is linked to the sunset – the believed destination of spirits.
Further mirroring Nuytsia's semi-parasitic nature, a popular fan theory suggests the Erdtree is parasitic, drawing sustenance from other plants. This theory posits the Erdtree usurped the life-giving power of an ancient Great Tree. However, game translations reveal this "Great Tree" was a misinterpretation, referring instead to the Erdtree's own extensive root system.
Ultimately, whether FromSoftware intentionally drew inspiration from Nuytsia remains a mystery.
