The theory proposed by Reddit user Independent-Design17 suggests a fascinating connection between Elden Ring's Erd Tree and the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda. At first glance, the visual resemblance between the Small Erd Trees in the game and Nuytsia is striking. However, the similarities go beyond mere aesthetics, delving into deeper cultural and thematic parallels.
In Elden Ring, the Erd Tree plays a crucial role in the game's lore, serving as a guiding force for the souls of the dead. This is evident from the numerous catacombs located at its roots, which serve as pathways for these souls. Similarly, in Australian Aboriginal culture, Nuytsia is revered as a "spirit tree." Each of its flowering branches is believed to represent the soul of a deceased individual, and its vibrant coloring is linked to the sunset, symbolizing the journey of spirits to the afterlife.
Image: reddit.com
Another intriguing aspect is the parasitic nature of Nuytsia, which draws nutrients from neighboring plants. This trait has sparked discussions among Elden Ring fans about the Erd Tree's potential parasitic nature. Some speculate that the Erd Tree might have overtaken the roots of an ancient Great Tree, which was once the source of life in the game's world. 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.
While these connections between the Erd Tree and Nuytsia floribunda are compelling, whether they were intentional or coincidental remains a mystery known only to the developers at FromSoftware.
