Helichrysum setosum leaves

The upper stems of Helichrysum setosum are densely covered in sessile (stalkless), stem-clasping leaves that spread or ascend slightly, diminishing in size upwards on the stems.

The leaf-shape is lanceolate, oblong or ovate, lobed at the base in heart-shaped fashion and tapering to their tips. The leaf margins are entire and wavy. The blades are covered in short glandular hairs that exude both strong fragrance and notable stickiness. Young leaves may be cobwebby all over. The specific name, setosum, is derived from the Latin word seta meaning bristle, referring to the bristly or hairy leaf coverings. Leaves are up to 8 cm long (Germishuizen and Clarke, 2003; Pooley, 1998; Van Wyk and Malan, 1997; iNaturalist).