The mostly alternate, sessile leaves of Wahlenbergia nodosa are often crowded at stem-tips. They are narrowly oblong with upturned, entire margins, here appearing fleshy. The blade tapers to a bluntly pointed tip, often with small protruding mucro as well, giving the plant a somewhat spiny appearance. The leaves are small, becoming 5 mm long and 2 mm wide. Sometimes the smallest leaves look more triangular than oblong.

The stem-tip leaves in the photo are variously curved back or reflexed, mature leaves typically recurving strongly. Upper stems are red or purple and faintly hairy.

Moderate browsing of this plant by stock and game occurs (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Bond and Goldblatt, 1984; iSpot).