Groot's Growth Rate in the MCU: How Long Until He Returns as an Adult Again?

The Guardians of the Galaxy franchise has brought us many unforgettable moments, but one character that stands out is the walking tree Groot. He has captivated audiences with his constant growth and transformations, making it hard not to feel an emotional connection to this heroic tree creature. As Marvel fans ponder how long it will take for Groot to return to his adult form, let's explore this fascinating aspect of the character.

The Long Journey of Groot's Growth

Marvel Studios has mastered the art of long-term character development with an interconnected series that spans numerous films and television series. Groot's growth cycle mirrors that of a tree, but with an accelerated process. In the first movie, we see Groot as a tall and heroic adult, but he undergoes a transformation into a baby version, known as 'Knight Groot' or simply 'Baby Groot,' in The Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. In Avengers: Infinity War, he transforms into an even younger form, with his growth cycle spotlighted further.

Scott Groot's Return to Adult Groot: An Inside Look

Scott, we have good news for you: there are clear indications that Groot will return to his adult form in the upcoming films. James Gunn, the visionary behind the Guardians franchise, has confirmed that Groot's growth cycle is akin to that of a tree, allowing him to return to his adult state. This inside scoop offers fans hope that they will see Groot in his full glory in the Thor: Love and Thunder or the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Furthermore, concept art and trailer teasers have already shown glimpses of a more mature Groot, indicating that Marvel is making subtle hints to fans.

Understanding Groot's Growth Rate

To delve deeper into Groot's growth rate, we must consider the practicalities involved. Eric North, an assistant professor of practice at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's School of Natural Resources, provides us with valuable insights. According to North, Groot's energy source is likely photosynthesis, though he might also be absorbing radiation from space. This unique energy source allows him to grow at a rapid pace, as seen between the Guardians of the Galaxy movies.

North created two models to illustrate Groot's growth: an exponential function and a power function. The exponential function assumes that Groot was fully grown at 12 feet 4 inches in the first movie, while the power function suggests he would continue to grow indefinitely. Given that Vin Diesel compared the original Groot to a seedling rather than a mature tree, the power function seems more plausible. Based on this model, Groot could have grown to be just under 6 feet tall in the year since Infinity War. This would take around two decades for Groot to return to his original height, assuming he survives.

Real-World Comparisons and Mysteries

While it's challenging to directly compare Groot's growth to real-world trees due to species-specific variables, the general arc of his growth does resemble that of real trees. However, some aspects of Groot's abilities remain puzzling. He can instantly grow long roots or viney tendrils to use as weapons, which is a far more rapid process than the growth of any real plant species. This super-fast ability is not yet explained by Groot's unique biology.

Conclusion

As Marvel continues to develop the future of Groot's character, fans eagerly await his return to adulthood. Following the long journey outlined by Marvel and the growth dynamics of Groot, it is highly likely that he will return as an adult by the time MCU expands further. Marvel's ability to surprise fans, as always, means that Groot's return could be even more remarkable than expected, possibly even as a wise sage-like figure, ready to impart age-old wisdom to the rest of the Guardians.