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

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 smaller Erdtrees in the game to Nuytsia. However, the parallels run deeper.

Elden Ring lore depicts the Erdtree as a destination for the souls of the deceased, explaining the catacombs at its base. Intriguingly, Nuytsia floribunda holds similar spiritual significance in Australian Aboriginal culture, considered a "spirit tree" where each flowering branch represents a departed soul. Its vibrant colors are linked to the sunset, the believed destination of spirits.

Further strengthening the connection is Nuytsia's semi-parasitic nature; it draws nutrients from neighboring plants. This mirrors a popular fan theory suggesting the Erdtree is parasitic, having usurped the life force of an ancient Great Tree. However, it's now understood that in-game references to a "Great Tree" are a translation misinterpretation, 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.