H. ciliata is a usually found as loose mats on boulders, typically in higher altitude areas. The leaf apices have a diagnostic white triangular tip which may be discernable even with the naked eye. The capsules stalk is very short, holding the capsules very close to the shoots.

H. ciliata may be confused for some species of Grimmia but members of Grimmia tend to form much smaller and compact cushions.