Groot (Teenage)
sh501 · Marvel Super Heroes
Avengers: Infinity War · 2018 (Released in March ahead of the April movie premiere)
Figure ID
sh501
Theme
Marvel Super Heroes
Year Released
2018 (Released in March ahead of the April movie premiere)
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited promotion, this version of Groot only appeared in two sets and was more sought after than the toddler version from 2017.
Head
Unique molded head/hair piece in Tan. Features wood grain printing, a determined/neutral expression, and a distinct jagged, crown-like 'hair' top with sand-green highlights.
Torso
Tan torso with wood grain 'bark' texture printing on front and back. Includes brown linework and sand-green mossy/leafy highlights. Arms are plain tan.
Legs
Standard Tan legs with wood grain/bark pattern printing on the front of both legs and the hip piece. Sides and back are unprinted.
Accessories
Usually paired with a 'game pad' tile or a branch-like weapon element in its original sets, though this specific image shows the figure without accessories.
Color Scheme
Primary color is Tan. Secondary colors include Reddish Brown (linework) and Sand Green (moss highlights).
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head, torso, and legs. The registration on the wood grain is notably crisp, and the sand green highlights provide a nice depth to the 'bark' texture.
Variants
This is the teenage version. Other variants include Baby Groot (sh388), Adult Groot (sh001 - buildable), and later versions from Thor: Love and Thunder (sh819).
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the neck joint and hip friction. The specialized molded head is sensitive to teeth marks or compression on the tall 'spikes'. Check for fading of the sand-green moss print.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $8 - $12 USD. New: $15 - $20 USD. Current market is stable for this specific release.
Price (New)
Included in sets retailing for $14.99 (76101) and $69.99 (76102).
Compatible Sets
76101 Outrider Dropship Attack (2018); 76102 Thor's Weapon Quest (2018).
Character Background
Based on Flora colossus species from the MCU; this represents Groot during his 'moody teenager' phase in Avengers: Infinity War where he is often seen playing video games.
Design Notes
Successful use of a specialized head mold to capture the tall, slender profile of the teenage character without using a standard minifigure hairpiece.
Similar Minifigures
Rocket Raccoon (sh494), Thor (sh482), and other versions of Groot like the Holiday special variant (sh841).
Collectibility
High demand for MCU completionists and fans of the Guardians of the Galaxy. It is considered an essential version of the character due to its screen-accurate design.
History
Followed the popular Baby Groot from 2017's GotG Vol. 2 line, reflecting the character's aging process across the Marvel Cinematic Universe timeline.
Interesting Facts
This minifigure's 'teen' head mold was specifically designed to reflect his lankier, taller proportions before he reached full adult size again in later films.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside Rocket Raccoon and Thor to recreate the 'Nidavellir' mission scenes from Infinity War. Use a clear 1x2 brick to help with stability if needed.
Modification Potential
The headpiece is frequently used by MOC builders for creating custom tree-aliens or fantasy dryad characters.
Overall Assessment
A well-designed, accurate representation of a specific movie moment. A solid 'buy' for Marvel collectors due to the unique head mold and excellent bark printing.