The coir is shaped into a pot or any other shape for that mater, and has a thin coating of latex to keep it together. Most are made overseas, particularly Sri Lanka. Keep in mind that most coir pots will last about a year above ground and 6 months in the ground. Hence the 'Green' factor. For some other plants in the garden, I have potted using coir and re potted a year later just by putting it in a larger coir pot. Have not messed with orchids with coir. Most potted orchids don't seem to like being disturbed every year