Habenaria rariflora is endemic to Peninsular India. It is reported from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gujarat, Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu states. The species grows in open moist rocky areas, crevices, in open sunny conditions. It can grow as a lithophyte on cliffs and old rock walls. Based on existing information, the extent of occurrence (EOO) is calculated as 531,611 km² using a minimum convex polygon (MCP) in GeoCAT software (Bachman et al. 2011) and the area of occupancy (AOO) is calculated as at least 128 km² using a 2x2 km grid in GeoCAT. The species is not severely fragmented and there is no report of continued decline in AOO, EOO, locations or population. But there is a decline in the quality of open natural habitats in which it grows. It is found in one Protected Area in Maharashtra (Sahyadri Tiger Reserve). Conservation and management of its habitat is required. It is assessed here as Least Concern, but there is a need to conduct detailed studies on trends in its population and habitat.

Habenaria rariflora is endemic to Peninsular India. It is reported from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gujarat, Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu states. Based on currently known records, the area of occupancy is 128 km², with 30 localities, but this may be a significant under-estimate.

Kumar et al. (2001) mention that the number of mature individuals is the Western Ghats is more than 10,000 but it is declining. There is no information on current population size of this species but it is likely to be more than that estimated in 2001 as it has been reported from more locations spread across peninsular India.

Habenaria rariflora is a terrestrial or lithophytic orchid. It is found on cliff edges, in the crevices of rocks and old stone walls in monsoon.

The open seasonally moist habitats in the region are undergoing continuing decline owing to anthropogenic activities such as tourism, land use change for infrastructure.

There is no use or trade information for this species.

There is no conservation action for Habenaria rariflora. Protection of habitat, monitoring of habitat and population is recommended.