As one of the original starter Pokémon from Kanto, Bulbasaur has rooted itself deeply in the hearts of fans. Its debut in the first-gen games and early anime episodes made it an instant classic—and that nostalgic magic carries over to its many TCG appearances.
From vintage Base Set gems to charming modern Illustration Rares, Bulbasaur has blossomed across generations of cards. Whether you’re a diehard Gen 1 fan or just love cute and collectible cards, these ten picks are sure to spark some fond memories.
10. Bulbasaur – Team Magma vs Team Aqua – 39/95 – Common
This little green friend from the Team Magma vs Team Aqua set keeps it simple and sweet. With just 50 HP and two no-frills attacks—“Growth” and “Razor Leaf”—this card was never meant to dominate tournaments, but it captures that early 2000s Pokémon vibe perfectly. A fun pickup for collectors who love deep cuts and retro deck filler.
9. Bulbasaur – EX FireRed & LeafGreen – 55/112 – Common
From the nostalgia-heavy EX FireRed & LeafGreen set, this version of Bulbasaur throws down with “Ram” and “Gouge,” a coin-flip move that adds a little spice. It’s got the classic feel of the early EX era, back when booster packs were full of potential and holo pulls felt like treasure.
8. Erika’s Bulbasaur – Gym Challenge – 39/132 – 1st Edition
What’s better than Bulbasaur? Bulbasaur + Erika. This Gym Challenge favorite is pure Kanto charm, featuring our Grass-type pal mid-Leech Seed, framed by soft pastels and a serene garden vibe. The 1st Edition stamp gives it extra collector appeal, and prices have stayed surprisingly reasonable for a card this memorable.
7. Bulbasaur – EX Crystal Guardians – 45/100 – Common
Illustrated by Sumiyoshi Kizuki, this card leans into Bulbasaur’s cuteness while also showing a bit of battle grit. The art pops with color, and “Poisonpowder” adds some tactical flavor for early-game play. It’s a great mix of nostalgia and style from the mid-2000s EX era.
6. Bulbasaur – Expedition Base Set – 95/165 – Common
This action-packed version of Bulbasaur gives us a more energetic look at the starter, caught mid-leap in a colorful e-Reader card. It’s one of two Bulbasaur cards from Expedition, and this one often edges out its sibling in fan favorites lists thanks to its punchy artwork and vivid background.
5. Bulbasaur – Expedition Base Set – 94/165 – Common
The gentler of the Expedition duo, this card shows Bulbasaur at its most peaceful. With playful eyes and the signature e-Reader strip, it’s a time capsule from the early 2000s—a bridge between analog nostalgia and digital innovation. Perfect for collectors who remember scanning cards into their GBA.
4. Bulbasaur – Scarlet & Violet: 151 – 166/165 – Illustration Rare
Modern sets have brought some of the most beautiful Bulbasaur art to date, and this 151 Illustration Rare proves it. Our leafy buddy lounges in a sun-dappled forest, capturing the quiet joy of nature. After a wild ride of price spikes and reprints, it’s settled into a collectible sweet spot around $25—and it’s still climbing.
3. Bulbasaur – Stellar Crown – 143 – Illustration Rare
If cozy vibes and classic Pokémon scenes are your thing, this card is a winner. Bulbasaur shares the spotlight with a flock of Pidgey, evoking the carefree days of Route 1. While Stellar Crown didn’t reach the heights of 151, this card might be one of the most heartwarming TCG moments of the year.
2. Ditto (Bulbasaur) – EX Delta Species – 36/113 – Rare
Is it Bulbasaur? Is it Ditto? Why not both? This quirky card from the Delta Species set captures Ditto mid-disguise, blending humor, creativity, and a twist on classic Pokémon lore. It’s a lighthearted oddity that adds variety—and personality—to any Bulbasaur collection.
1. Bulbasaur – Base Set – 44/102 – 1st Edition
The one that started it all. Released in 1999 as part of the original Base Set, this card is pure TCG history. With calm, forested artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita and that iconic 1st Edition stamp, it’s a holy grail for nostalgic collectors. Whether graded or raw, owning this card feels like owning a piece of Pokémon’s roots.
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