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 smaller Erdtrees in the game and Nuytsia. However, the parallels run deeper.
In Elden Ring lore, the Erdtree guides the souls of the departed, explaining the catacombs at its base. Interestingly, Nuytsia holds similar spiritual significance in Aboriginal Australian culture. Its blossoms represent the souls of the deceased, and its vibrant colors evoke 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 overtaken the roots of a primordial Great Tree, the original source of life. However, game text referencing a "Great Tree" may be a mistranslation, potentially referring to the Erdtree's own extensive root system.
Ultimately, whether FromSoftware intentionally drew inspiration from Nuytsia remains a mystery known only to the developers.
