Trachyandra ciliata is common on sandy flats along the southwestern Cape coast. The plants are easily recognized from other similar species by the trailing, snake-like flower spikes. The fruiting stalks curve downwards very characteristically. Like all species in the genus, each flower lasts only a single day and is pleasantly scented. The flowers are pollinated by honey bees and solitary bees that collect pollen and possibly nectar. The seeds are shed during summer. Like other members of the family, each seed is covered by a thin papery skin which includes specialized cells that contain bundles of needle-like crystals of oxalic acid which probably function to deter seed predators.