Helichrysum odoratissimum leaves

The simple, alternate leaves of Helichrysum odoratissimum var. odoratissimum clasp the stems. Elliptic to obovate in shape, the leaf base elongates to the stem, the tip rounded. The soft, woolly blades are green, pale green, yellowish green or grey green above, and white with dense woolly hairs below. The midribs are prominent in the photo. The upper stem parts visible here are also white with the woolly hairs.

One can imagine how useful a good supply of these soft leaves may be as a mattress at night in the veld. Especially as they will also keep some nocturnal insect visitors away (Pooley, 1998; iNaturalist).