[4] A highly variable species, Leptinella plumosa is a perennial herb that forms extensive mats.

Its creeping stems, growing up to 5 mm in diameter, have short, lateral branches with leaves in terminal rosettes.

[4] The plant occurs in the Auckland, Antipodes, Campbell, Macquarie, Kerguelen, Prince Edward, Heard and Crozet Islands.

It is widespread in coastal areas and rare inland, but has been recorded at altitudes of up to 150 m above sea level.

[4] In both 2009 and 2012 it was deemed to be "At Risk - Naturally Uncommon" under the New Zealand Threat Classification System,[5] and this New Zealand classification was reaffirmed in 2018 (due to its restricted range) but with a further comment that it is secure overseas.