The soft stems of Tromotriche species are obtusely, roundly four-angled (in cross section).

Low, rounded mounds run along the edges of the angles, and leaf remnants are not visible.

This genus is restricted to the western (winter rainfall) regions of South Africa & Namibia.

Its natural range closely mirrors that of the related genus Quaqua.

The Tromotriche species in the north of its range tend to inhabit rocky quartz flats; while the three species in the south are each restricted to a small spot within the sandstone Cape Fold mountain ranges.