This monotypic genus was described by German botanist Rudolf Schlechter in 1906 and is now placed in the subtribe Cryptostylidinae.

[2][3] Coilochilus neocaledonicum is widespread on the island of Grande Terre in New Caledonia.

It occurs in humid forests dominated by species of Agathis and Araucaria and in moist shrubland gullies at elevations of 50–1,400 m (160–4,590 ft) above sea level.

The inflorescence is an erect raceme that bears many tiny, dull-coloured flowers.

[2] Coilochilus neocaledonicum is listed as least concern on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List, though some populations may be impacted by mining.