The large, alternate leaves of Helichrysum foetidum are stalkless as they clasp the stems.

The leaf-shape is lanceolate, shaped like a lance that tapers gradually to a long, acutely pointed tip. There are exaggerated basal lobes or ears, white midribs and margins that are wavy and entire.

The soft blades are (variably) pale green above and obscurely hairy, while whitish below from the velvety to woolly hair covering (Privett and Lutzeyer, 2010; Manning, 2007; iNaturalist).