The leaves of Glottiphyllum fergusoniae grow in about equal, erect pairs in a compact clump. Decussately arranged on short stems, the pairs succeed each other perpendicular to the previous one. A stem may hold about four pairs at a time in various stages of development or decay.

The rigid leaves are pointed and rounded to slightly angular in incurved cone-shapes. They may be 15 mm wide near the base. The dark green, dull green to brownish surfaces are wax-coated, adding greyness.

The thickly succulent leaves of Glottiphyllum plants tend to be browsed. These plants are mainly found in the Little Karoo and Karoo where moisture is often welcome or sought after in the veld (Frandsen, 2017; Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Smith, et al, 1998; Bond and Goldblatt, 1984; Wikipedia).