Bulbasaur is number 0001 in the National Pokedex, which makes it the very first Pokemon many fans ever see. The Seed Pokemon has been charming collectors since the first English Pokemon cards in 1999, and today Bulbasaur Pokemon cards range from affordable commons to beautiful modern Illustration Rares.
This guide covers Bulbasaur’s history, the best Bulbasaur Pokemon cards to collect and tips for building a Bulbasaur binder that grows with you.
Who Is Bulbasaur Pokemon?
Bulbasaur is a Grass and Poison type Pokemon from the Kanto region. It carries a plant bulb on its back that grows as it does, and it evolves into Ivysaur and then Venusaur. As one of the three original starter Pokemon, alongside Charmander and Squirtle, Bulbasaur has a special place in the hearts of fans who started with Pokemon Red, Blue or Green.
Why Collectors Love Bulbasaur Pokemon Cards
Bulbasaur is cute, friendly and full of nostalgia. Its simple design lends itself to charming artwork, from classic Base Set illustrations to detailed modern scenes. Bulbasaur cards are also usually more affordable than Charizard cards, which makes Bulbasaur a great starter line for new collectors.
The starter trio
Many collectors build collections around the three Kanto starters. Bulbasaur fans often pair their cards with Charmander and Squirtle, creating colourful binder pages that celebrate the original games.
8 Best Bulbasaur Pokemon Cards
1. Base Set Bulbasaur
The original 1999 Bulbasaur, a common card that is now a nostalgic favourite. 1st Edition and shadowless versions are especially collectable in top condition.
2. Base Set 2 and Legendary Collection Bulbasaur
Reprints of the classic artwork, with Legendary Collection’s reverse holo fireworks pattern adding a fun twist.
3. Expedition Bulbasaur
Later Wizards of the Coast sets such as Expedition gave Bulbasaur new artwork and attacks, popular with vintage fans.
4. Bulbasaur in the EX era
The EX FireRed and LeafGreen era revisited Kanto with fresh artwork for Bulbasaur and its evolutions.
5. Modern Bulbasaur artwork
Bulbasaur has appeared in many modern sets with fresh artwork, including reverse holo and special illustration versions that show it in detailed scenes.
6. 151 Bulbasaur Illustration Rare (166/165)
The 151 set gave Bulbasaur a stunning Illustration Rare, the first card in the set’s beloved starter run. Our 151 booster packs give you a chance at it.
7. Venusaur ex Special Illustration Rare (151)
Not a Bulbasaur card, but the natural final piece of any Bulbasaur evolution collection.
8. Promo Bulbasaur cards
Bulbasaur has appeared on many promo cards over the years, often in collection boxes and special products.
How to Build a Bulbasaur Pokemon Binder
- Start with one Bulbasaur from each era you can find.
- Add Ivysaur and Venusaur to complete evolution lines.
- Include the 151 Illustration Rare run if you can.
- Mix in Grass-type friends for a themed page.
- Upgrade cards over time as you find better condition or rarer versions.
A 9-pocket binder is perfect for organising Bulbasaur cards by era, while a 4-pocket portfolio gives each card more space to shine.
Are Bulbasaur Pokemon Cards Valuable?
Most Bulbasaur cards are affordable, which is part of their charm. Exceptions include 1st Edition Base Set copies in high grades, rare promos and modern Illustration Rares, which can command strong prices. As always, value depends on the exact card and its condition.
Tips for buying Bulbasaur cards
- Check recent sold prices for the exact version
- Inspect vintage cards carefully for edge wear and scratches
- Buy singles for specific cards rather than chasing them in packs
- Verify graded cards on the grading company’s website
Bulbasaur in the Trading Card Game
Bulbasaur is a Basic Pokemon in the TCG, usually with modest HP and simple attacks. It is the first step towards Venusaur, which is often a strong attacker or support Pokemon. Building a Grass-type deck around the Venusaur line is a fun, classic strategy for casual games.
Grass-type deck ideas
Pair the Bulbasaur line with other Grass Pokemon and Trainer cards that heal or accelerate Energy. Check the current Standard format if you plan to play in tournaments.
Bulbasaur Pokemon and the Pokedex
Because Bulbasaur is Pokedex number 0001, it often opens set lists and binders. Collectors building Pokedex binders, with one card for every Pokemon in order, always start with a Bulbasaur. That makes it one of the most important cards for National Pokedex collectors.
Bulbasaur Pokemon in the Video Games
In the original games, choosing Bulbasaur as your starter made the first gyms easier, because its Grass attacks were strong against early Rock and Water types. Many fans remember picking Bulbasaur for exactly that reason. It has since appeared in remakes, spin-offs and the anime, where Ash’s Bulbasaur became a fan favourite for its loyal, sensible personality.
Bulbasaur in modern sets
Bulbasaur continues to appear in new sets, often with artwork that shows it relaxing in nature. Keep an eye on each new set list, because modern Illustration Rares of Bulbasaur are often affordable and beautiful.
Collecting Bulbasaur across languages
Some collectors chase the same Bulbasaur card in English and Japanese, or collect Japanese promos that never came out in English. Because Bulbasaur cards are usually affordable, collecting across languages is a fun and budget-friendly way to expand a Bulbasaur Pokemon binder.
Condition matters for vintage commons
Base Set Bulbasaur was a common, so many copies were played with and traded heavily. Clean copies with sharp corners and strong centring are harder to find than you might expect, especially 1st Edition and shadowless versions.
Gift Ideas for Bulbasaur Fans
Bulbasaur fans will love a single favourite card in a magnetic holder, booster packs from the 151 set or a binder to start a Kanto starter collection. Pair them with premium sleeves for a thoughtful, complete gift that will help their new Bulbasaur Pokemon cards stay in great shape.
Bulbasaur Pokemon FAQ
What type is Bulbasaur?
Bulbasaur is a Grass and Poison type Pokemon.
What does Bulbasaur evolve into?
Ivysaur, and then Venusaur.
What is the best modern Bulbasaur card?
The 151 Bulbasaur Illustration Rare, numbered 166/165, is a favourite with collectors.
Where can I see every Bulbasaur card?
The official Pokemon card database lists every Bulbasaur card ever printed.
Bulbasaur Pokemon cards are the perfect way to start a collection, literally at number one. Pick up a few favourites and let your Kanto binder grow from there.
