Elden Ring fans consider the Tree of Erd to be a “Christmas tree”

Reddit user Independent-Design17 proposed a fascinating theory: Elden Ring's Erd Tree might be inspired by the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda.

Superficial similarities are undeniable, particularly when comparing the smaller Erd Trees in the game to Nuytsia. However, the parallels run deeper. In Elden Ring lore, the Erd Tree guides the souls of the deceased, mirroring the Aboriginal Australian belief that Nuytsia is a "spirit tree," with each flowering branch representing a departed soul. The tree's vibrant color is also linked to the sunset, the perceived destination of spirits in this culture.

Further strengthening the connection is Nuytsia's semi-parasitic nature; it draws nutrients from neighboring plants. This resonates with fan theories suggesting the Erd Tree is parasitic, having supposedly overtaken the roots of an ancient Great Tree, the original source of life. However, it's now understood that references to a "Great Tree" in game descriptions are likely mistranslations, referring instead to the Erd Tree's own extensive root system.

Ultimately, only FromSoftware knows if these Nuytsia parallels are deliberate or coincidental.