Elden Ring's Towering Tree Delights Players

Reddit user Independent-Design17 proposed a fascinating connection between Elden Ring's Erdtree and the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda. The visual resemblance, particularly between the game's smaller Erdtrees and Nuytsia, is striking. However, the similarities extend beyond mere aesthetics.

Elden Ring lore depicts the Erdtree as a guide for the souls of the departed, explaining the catacombs at its base. Intriguingly, Nuytsia holds similar spiritual significance in Australian Aboriginal culture, its blossoms representing the souls of the deceased, their vibrant hues echoing the sunset – the perceived destination of spirits.

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