# 1997 Magic: The Gathering Portal #173†

> Monstrous Growth is a classic green sorcery from the 1997 Portal expansion, designed to provide significant power boosts to creatures during gameplay.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1997
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Portal
- **Card number**: #173†
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Monstrous Growth, numbered 173 in the Portal expansion, is a foundational green sorcery released by Wizards of the Coast in 1997. Designed to make Magic: The Gathering more accessible to new players, this card delivers a substantial temporary boost to a target creature, increasing its power and toughness by four until the end of the turn. This effect allows players to overcome larger threats or close out games quickly, making it a staple in casual and constructed formats alike. For collectors, this card represents an important era in the game's history, bridging the gap between hardcore competitive play and introductory experiences. Whether you are looking to complete a Portal set or add a versatile spell to your collection, this card remains a recognizable piece of Magic history.

## FAQ

### What does Monstrous Growth do in Magic: The Gathering?

Monstrous Growth is a green sorcery that targets a creature you control, giving it +4/+4 until the end of the turn. This effect makes the creature significantly larger and more powerful for combat or blocking purposes.

### What set is Monstrous Growth #173 from?

This card is from the Portal expansion, released in 1997. Portal was designed to be an entry-level set for new players, featuring simplified rules and a distinct visual style compared to standard expansions.

### Who is the artist for Monstrous Growth card 173?

The artwork for Monstrous Growth was created by Dan Frazier, known for his contributions to various Magic: The Gathering sets during the late 1990s.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.