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Elden Ring fans consider the Tree of Erd to be a “Christmas tree”

by Oliver Jan 17,2025

Reddit user Independent-Design17 proposed a fascinating connection: the Erdtree in Elden Ring might be inspired by the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda.

Superficial similarities are undeniable, particularly when comparing the smaller Erdtrees in the game. However, fans have unearthed even deeper connections. In Elden Ring, the Erdtree guides the souls of the deceased, a concept mirrored by the Aboriginal Australian belief that Nuytsia is a "spirit tree." Each flowering branch represents a departed soul, and its vibrant colors are linked to the sunset, the perceived destination of spirits.

Image: reddit.com

Adding to the intrigue, Nuytsia is a hemiparasite, drawing nutrients from neighboring plants. This parasitic nature resonates with a popular fan theory suggesting the Erdtree similarly leeches life from the ancient Great Tree. Interestingly, however, game descriptions referencing a "Great Tree" appear to be a mistranslation; the text actually refers to the Erdtree's own extensive root system.

Ultimately, only FromSoftware knows if these striking parallels to Nuytsia floribunda are deliberate or coincidental.

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