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. While a surface-level resemblance, particularly between the smaller Erdtrees in the game and Nuytsia, is evident, deeper thematic parallels have been noted by fans.

In Elden Ring lore, the Erdtree guides the souls of the departed, a detail reflected by the catacombs found at its base. Intriguingly, Nuytsia floribunda holds similar significance in Australian Aboriginal culture, regarded as a "spirit tree." Each flowering branch is believed to represent a deceased soul, its vibrant color echoing the sunset – the perceived destination of spirits.

Further strengthening this comparison is Nuytsia's semi-parasitic nature. It thrives by drawing nutrients from neighboring plants. This mirrors a prevalent fan theory suggesting the Erdtree itself is parasitic, having usurped the life force of an ancient Great Tree (though this "Great Tree" reference in-game is now believed to be a translation error referring to the Erdtree's own extensive root system).

Ultimately, whether these striking similarities between Nuytsia floribunda and the Erdtree are deliberate design choices or coincidental remains a mystery known only to FromSoftware.