The Moodjar Tree

Kim Kiosses

The Moodjar tree (WA Christmas tree) is called the Tree of Souls by Noongar people. It is distinguished by its spectacular orange and yellow blossoms that carry profound cultural meaning. This sacred and powerful tree holds the souls of the recently departed, serving as a resting place before heading to the afterlife. The Noongar people consider the Moodjar sacred, knowing it has held our ancestors’ spirits within its branches. This wavy bands in this painting represents the canopy of the tree, where the spirits rest. The dots along the top of the painting represent the spirits being blown by the wind to the afterlife.