Mesembryanthemum oculatum leaves

The sessile (stalkless) leaves of Mesembryanthemum oculatum grow in opposite pairs in the lower stem parts, subopposite nearer the flowers. Leaf-shape is nearly cylindrical but for the concave upper surface that can sometimes be distinguished, sometimes somewhat triangular. The succulent leaves are erect, the tips rounded. Leaves become up to 2 cm long.

Large water cells or bladder cells are present on the leaf surfaces, sometimes also hairs near the leaf bases. Old, withered leaves sometimes drop off, or tend to remain on the stems, a phenomenon referred to as marcescence.

The reddish or yellowish, hairy internodes that space the leaves vary in length (Le Roux, et al, 2005; Smith, et al, 1998; Herre, 1971; iNaturalist).