From a Jungian perspective, trees often appear as symbols of the self, representing the integration of conscious and unconscious elements of the psyche. The tree, with roots in the earth and branches reaching toward the sky, bridges the material and spiritual realms. Trees may appear in dreams during individuation processes, reflecting psychological growth and the expansion of consciousness. The dream tree's condition can provide insights into how you perceive your own psychological development. Psychoanalytic perspectives might interpret tree dreams in relation to parental figures, particularly when the tree appears as nurturing, protective, or overwhelming. The tree may represent the mother or father archetype depending on its qualities and your associations.

The World Tree or Axis Mundi appears in numerous spiritual traditions, representing the connection between heaven, earth, and the underworld. This archetypal tree symbolizes the center of the cosmos and the integration of different realms of existence. Family trees as genealogical symbols exist across cultures, representing lineage, heritage, and the connections between generations. Dreams of trees may tap into this universal understanding of human connections through time. Indigenous cultures worldwide often regard trees as sacred living beings or the dwelling places of spirits. These cultural frameworks view trees not merely as objects but as conscious entities with whom humans can communicate and form relationships.