Ash’s Bulbasaur refuses to evolve in the Pokémon episode “Bulbasaur’s Mysterious Garden” (EP051). When other Bulbasaur evolve into Ivysaur, Ash’s Pokémon chooses not to—and Ash eventually recognizes that the decision belongs to Bulbasaur.
What happens in “Bulbasaur’s Mysterious Garden”?
At a gathering of Bulbasaur, the others evolve into Ivysaur, but Ash’s Bulbasaur refuses to join them. The episode makes clear that evolving is available to it; the choice not to evolve is its own. Bulbapedia’s EP051 account and Serebii.net’s episode guide identify the story as “Bulbasaur’s Mysterious Garden.”
Why does Bulbasaur refuse?
In the story, Bulbasaur simply does not want to evolve. Misty notes that evolving could let it take part in the garden’s display, but Bulbasaur still refuses. Ash initially has to understand that this is Bulbasaur’s decision, not a problem he should solve by persuading it to change.
When an angry Venusaur confronts Bulbasaur, Ash protects it. He then apologizes for not having considered Bulbasaur’s feelings. The episode treats respect for Bulbasaur’s preference—not fear, inability, or a hidden condition—as the answer.
#1 Best Overall
- Approximately 82mm in length. Body patterns are recreated using a combination of stickers and part separation
- Thoughtfully designed parts ensure easy assembly while achieving a vibrant, colorful finish
- A simple layout lets you envision the final product at a glance when looking at the runner
- Features a tool-free touch-gate system for effortless assembly
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed product
Does Ash’s Bulbasaur evolve in the episode?
No. It remains a Bulbasaur at the end of EP051, even after seeing what evolving could enable. The other Bulbasaur’s evolution into Ivysaur does not make evolution compulsory for Ash’s Pokémon.
Is there a confirmed behind-the-scenes reason?
The episode provides an in-story explanation: Bulbasaur does not want to evolve, and Ash learns to respect that choice. The episode accounts cited above do not establish a separate creator statement about why the writers kept the character unevolved. Claims about production motives should therefore be treated as speculation, not as a confirmed explanation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- POKÉMON PLUSH: Choose to cuddle Bulbasaur, the Seed Pokémon.
- SPECIAL MATERIAL: Snuggly 8-inch Pokémon plush is made with super soft material.
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS: Bulbasaur looks like it jumped out of the Pokémon Animated Series.
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- OFFICIAL PRODUCT: Officially licensed Pokémon product from Jazwares.
Rank #4
- Official Pokemon Collectible: Authentic Pokemon X and Y merchandise featuring the beloved Bulbasaur character, model MC 002, for fans and collectors of the iconic franchise
- Compact Display Size: Measures approximately 1 inch in length, 1 inch in width, and 1.5 inches in height, suitable for display on desks, shelves, or in collection cases
- Brand New Condition: Arrives factory sealed in original packaging, ensuring pristine condition and authenticity for your Pokemon figure collection
- Limited Availability Item: This collectible figure has restricted production quantities, making it a valuable addition for serious Pokemon enthusiasts and collectors seeking rare merchandise
- Adorable Design Details: Features the charming Grass-type starter Pokemon Bulbasaur with accurate detailing and coloring, capturing the distinctive appearance from the Pokemon X and Y games
Rank #3
- IDEAL COLLECTIBLE SIZE - At approximately 3.75 inches (9.5 cm) tall, this vinyl mini figurine complements other collectable merchandise and fits perfectly in your display case or on your desk.
- PREMIUM VINYL MATERIAL - Made from high-quality, durable vinyl, this collectible is built to last and withstand daily wear, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment for fans and collectors alike.
- PERFECT GIFT FOR FANS - Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions and as a present this figurine is a must-have addition to any merchandise collection
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Rank #2
- ICONIC POKÉMON: Build your Pokémon team with this Battle Figure 6 Pack.
- DIFFERENT TYPES: Diverse set of Pokémon types will help you battle any trainer.
- CROSS PLAY: 2-inch figures fit in Clip 'N' Go Poké Ball, Carry Case Playset & Surprise Attack Game.
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS: Figures look like they jumped out of the Pokémon Animated Series.
- OFFICIAL PRODUCT: Officially licensed Pokémon product from Jazwares.
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