3 min read

When you talk about the classic evolution line of Grass-type Pokémon, Ivysaur comes up quickly. This evolution of Bulbasaur is known as the middle stage, but look closely and you see a Pokémon that is much more than that. In this blog we take you into the world of Ivysaur: its origins, its evolutions, its role in the games and the TCG, and a personal story that shows its strength.


Who is Ivysaur?

Ivysaur is the second form in Bulbasaur's evolution line. As you know, it all starts with the small, seed-carrying Bulbasaur, a starter that many people chose in the original Pokémon Red and Blue. Once it has gained enough experience it evolves into Ivysaur – a more powerful, more mature version with a half-opened flower on its back.

What sets Ivysaur apart from other middle stages is its balance. It still combines the cute charm of Bulbasaur with the strength and strategic potential of Venusaur. In the anime we see Ash's Bulbasaur deliberately refuse to evolve into Ivysaur, which only adds to the mystique of this Pokémon.

Ivysaur has had several cards in the TCG, often as a support or a stepping-stone card towards a strong Venusaur. Even so, there are Ivysaur cards with beautiful illustrations and solid playability – loved by fans of the Grass type.


Ivysaur's evolution line

Ivysaur's strength lies in its place within one of the best-known lines:

  • Bulbasaur – the original Grass/Poison starter. Sweet, but with hidden power.
  • Ivysaur – gains more leaves, longer fin-like ears and a flower bud that is ripening. Ready to bloom.
  • Venusaur – fully grown, with an enormous flower on its back. A Pokémon with imposing power and presence.

Later Venusaur also got a Mega Evolution and a Gigantamax form, both with even more powerful effects and a visually impressive design. Ivysaur plays a key part in that – without it, no Venusaur.


The middle stage that decided everything

Picture it: a young trainer heads into the woods of Viridian Forest with their loyal Bulbasaur. They train together, they grow, and finally, after winning their second badge, Bulbasaur evolves into Ivysaur. That first time the flower opens and radiates a stronger aura... it is magic. Ivysaur guides the trainer through fights against Team Rocket, helps catch legendary birds and lays the foundation for every success that follows.

Ivysaur is not just a stepping stone – it is the turning point where a cute starter transforms into a serious fighter. And you see that back in its cards: often with expressive poses and an air of determination.


The most popular and most expensive Ivysaur cards

Although Ivysaur rarely takes the lead role, there certainly are cards that are both loved and valuable:

Ivysaur (Base Set, 1999)

  • PSA 10 value: €250 – €400
  • A classic card, often underrated, but rather rare in perfect condition.

Ivysaur (Expedition, 2002)

  • Value in mint: €80 – €150
  • Beautiful retro-style illustration. Very popular among old-school collectors.

Ivysaur (Pokémon GO, 2022)

  • Value in mint: €10 – €20
  • A modern card with AR-like artwork. Nice for new collectors.

Ivysaur (POP Series 2, 2005)

  • PSA 10 value: €120 – €180
  • Relatively rare and not often found in a high grade.


Why Ivysaur is an indispensable link

Ivysaur is sometimes forgotten, but it is genuinely indispensable. Without it, no Venusaur. It stands for the growth that every trainer and every Pokémon goes through. In the TCG it represents preparation, strategy and transition – all important themes within the game and the stories around it.

So if you want to complete your collection, or if you value the journey from beginner to master, Ivysaur is the Pokémon that tells that story perfectly.