Why are ghost orchids so rare?

A ghost orchid is an extremely rare but beautiful type of orchid. You can see a picture of it here

The ghost orchid is very rare because it needs very specific conditions in order to grow. The ghost orchid has a symbiotic relationship with a type of fungus, and will not grow if the fungus is not present.

It's rare because it proved impossible to raise in cultured environments, and so it is rarely sold in regular collections, and costs a small fortune if you find it. It has no stem, and the leaves are degenerate. The roots absorb moisture and chlorophyll. Every plant has about 10 flowers, and they bloom one after the other during the summer (June to August).

If you see one make sure you don't touch it, as they are considered endangered and it is illegal to puck them.

The Ghost Orchids are very rare due to several things.  One of the main places that they are found today is the Florida Everglades, and the Everglades are in severe danger of being completely destroyed.  People continue to build homes further and further west, as homes along the beach in Florida become more expensive.  Also, Ghost Orchids are extremely difficult to cultivate outside their habitat.  So, preserving them is even more difficult.