Orchids date back millions of years. But in the 1800s, the plants became a status symbol and the cornerstone of a high-dollar industry. Collecting the plants involved adventure and excitement -- and a high death rate.
Learn more about advertising on the HowStuffWorks podcasts at www.howstuffworks.com/advertisers.htm
And to learn about your ad choices when listening to podcasts, visit
https://www.howstuffworks.com/privacy.htm#ad-choices