Elden Ring's Tree of Erd Dubbed "Christmas Tree" by Fans

The theory proposed by Reddit user Independent-Design17, suggesting that the Erd Tree in Elden Ring might be inspired by the Australian Christmas tree Nuytsia floribunda, has sparked intriguing discussions among fans. At first glance, the similarities between the Small Erd Trees in the game and Nuytsia are striking, but the connections go much deeper.

In Elden Ring, the Erd Tree serves as a guiding beacon for the souls of the dead, which is reflected in the catacombs found at its roots. This concept resonates with the cultural significance of Nuytsia in Australian Aboriginal traditions, where it is revered as a "spirit tree." Each flowering branch of Nuytsia is believed to represent the soul of a deceased individual, and its vibrant colors are linked to the sunset, symbolizing the journey of spirits to the afterlife.

Image: reddit.com

Another fascinating parallel is the parasitic nature of Nuytsia, which draws nutrients from neighboring plants. This trait aligns with fan theories about the Erd Tree, which some believe to be parasitic, having overtaken the roots of the ancient Great Tree, the original source of life in the game's lore. However, it's worth noting that references to the "Great Tree" in item descriptions have been identified as a translation error, and they actually refer to the "Great Roots" of the Erd Tree itself.

Whether these similarities between the Erd Tree and Nuytsia floribunda are intentional nods by FromSoftware or mere coincidences remains a mystery known only to the game's developers. Nonetheless, these connections enrich the lore and deepen the appreciation of Elden Ring's intricate world-building.