The leaves of Polygala asbestina are narrowly oblong to obovate, tapering to the base and pointed at the tip. The margins are entire. The dark green leaf surface is covered in short white hairs, as is all new growth on the plant. The leaf folds in along its midrib and curves down towards the tip. Leaf dimensions are 1 cm long and half as wide.

The plant is palatable, often browsed by stock and game (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2010; Shearing and Van Heerden, 2008; iSpot).