Hidden in the decaying corners of the Lands Between, the Putrid Tree Spirit is one of the most disturbing and chaotic enemies players can encounter in Elden Ring. With its grotesque appearance, erratic movements, and deadly scarlet rot attacks, this boss takes the already fearsome Ulcerated Tree Spirit and turns the threat level up several notches. Found deep within optional areas like the Consecrated Snowfield and Caelid’s secret zones, the Putrid Tree Spirit challenges even the most seasoned Tarnished with its aggression and unpredictable combat style. Defeating it not only tests your reflexes and preparation but also rewards valuable items and runes that can significantly enhance your progression.
Where to Find the Putrid Tree Spirit
The Putrid Tree Spirit does not appear in every playthrough unless players specifically seek it out. It tends to hide in late-game regions or behind hidden areas. Here are the primary locations where players can encounter this monstrous foe:
- War-Dead Catacombs (Caelid): After defeating General Radahn, players can access this dungeon where the Putrid Tree Spirit serves as the final boss.
- Consecrated Snowfield Catacombs: Deep in the optional Consecrated Snowfield, this variant appears and is even more dangerous due to its confined arena.
- Giant-Conquering Hero’s Grave: In some versions of the game, depending on progression, a Putrid Tree Spirit may replace the regular Tree Spirit variant.
These encounters are usually optional but are well worth exploring for those chasing rare materials, rune arcs, and unique spirit ashes.
Putrid Tree Spirit vs. Ulcerated Tree Spirit
At first glance, the Putrid Tree Spirit looks nearly identical to the Ulcerated Tree Spirit, with a massive, coiled, and malformed body covered in sinew and rot. However, there are key differences that make the Putrid version significantly more challenging:
- Scarlet Rot Aura: The Putrid Tree Spirit emits an aura of rot that can infect you quickly if you stay close for too long.
- Enhanced Aggression: Its attack patterns are more rapid and erratic compared to its ulcerated counterpart.
- Higher Damage Output: It deals more damage per hit, making mistakes even more punishing.
Because of these differences, players must approach this fight with more caution and preparation, especially regarding rot resistance and mobility.
Boss Fight Mechanics
Attack Patterns
The Putrid Tree Spirit employs a mix of sweeping tail attacks, lunging bites, and devastating ground slams. Understanding these attack patterns is crucial for survival:
- Rot Explosion: It will rear back and charge up a scarlet rot explosion, dealing area-of-effect damage and applying rot buildup.
- Tail Sweep: A wide sweeping motion that can hit players even when circling behind it.
- Grab and Bite: A lunge followed by a grab animation that deals massive damage if not dodged.
- Flame Breath: Occasionally exhales flame-like energy forward, clearing space in front of it.
The boss’s movements are difficult to predict due to its speed and erratic behavior, making it essential to keep a safe distance and dodge reactively rather than preemptively.
Phases
The Putrid Tree Spirit operates in phases similar to many other bosses in Elden Ring:
- Phase One: Standard physical attacks with moderate aggression, giving players time to learn the patterns.
- Phase Two (Below 50% HP): The boss becomes more frantic, uses rot attacks more frequently, and chains combos unpredictably.
Players often struggle in the second phase due to the increased tempo and buildup of scarlet rot, especially in confined arenas with limited room to maneuver.
Recommended Strategy to Defeat the Putrid Tree Spirit
Preparation Tips
Before entering the boss room, take the following precautions:
- Scarlet Rot Resistance: Equip gear and talismans that boost immunity, such as the Immunizing Horn Charm.
- Preserving Boluses: Carry these consumables to instantly remove rot buildup during the fight.
- Spirit Ash Summons: Use tanky summons like Lhutel the Headless or Mimic Tear to draw aggro.
- Light Load: Consider wearing lighter armor for faster rolling, as mobility is more important than defense here.
Fighting Tactics
The key to victory is patience and timing. Do not get greedy with hits. Instead, follow these tactics:
- Dodge, Don’t Block: The boss’s attacks are too large and irregular to reliably block, even with a greatshield.
- Stick to the Rear: Circling around the boss’s tail gives you more opportunities to land hits and avoid frontal attacks.
- Watch for Rot Explosions: Back off the moment the boss begins charging up its signature explosion.
- Use Fire or Holy Damage: These types of damage are especially effective against Tree Spirits.
Magic users should maintain distance and use fast-casting spells like Glintstone Pebble or Rotten Breath for a taste of poetic justice. Melee fighters should consider jump attacks for better damage output and posture breaking.
Rewards for Defeating the Putrid Tree Spirit
Though defeating the Putrid Tree Spirit can be a grueling ordeal, the rewards make it worthwhile. The exact drops vary depending on the location of the fight, but generally include the following:
- Golden Seed: Allows you to upgrade your flask uses, enhancing survivability in future battles.
- Root Resin: A crafting material for buffing weapons with status effects.
- Spirit Ashes: Some variants drop unique ashes like Redmane Knight Ogha.
- Runes: High rune reward, often around 90,000100,000 depending on location and NG+ cycle.
These rewards are especially valuable for players seeking to improve their healing efficiency and boost their arsenal. In addition, defeating this boss grants a sense of triumph that only Elden Ring’s toughest optional bosses can offer.
Putrid Tree Spirit Lore and Significance
While much of Elden Ring’s story is hidden in item descriptions and environmental storytelling, the Putrid Tree Spirit appears to be a corrupted version of the Erdtree’s guardians. Twisted by scarlet rot, it reflects the unnatural decay spreading throughout the Lands Between. Its grotesque body and aggressive nature suggest it was once a protective spirit now consumed by the same rot that affects Caelid and other corrupted lands.
Some fans speculate that these creatures were once vessels or guardians of the Erdtree’s will, now twisted into abominations by the very forces they sought to contain. Their presence in deep, hidden catacombs only adds to their mysterious role in the lore of Elden Ring.
The Putrid Tree Spirit stands as one of Elden Ring’s most terrifying and memorable encounters. With its erratic movements, devastating rot attacks, and grotesque design, it demands preparation, awareness, and adaptability. For those willing to brave its lair, the fight offers not only valuable rewards but also a deeper understanding of the rot-infested corners of the Lands Between. Whether you’re a faith caster, dexterity rogue, or strength bruiser, this boss will test every part of your build and offer unforgettable victory when you finally strike it down.