Leptinella calcarea is endemic to the South Island, and is found in north-west Nelson from Cape Farewell south to Kahurangi Point. It is found growing in coastal areas, on consolidated sand dunes, calcreous mudstones, limestones and conglomerate rock. This dioecious, perennial, tufted herb forms a loose to compact mat-like green carpet, and will occupy sites with minimal vegetation cover. Not invasive but will challenge other groundcovers if not maintained. It can be used as a lawn replacement in lower traffic areas and is very hardy.  It has small yellow flowers from August to November. It is best suited to full sun in a dryer well drained site. This naturally uncommon plant due to range restriction appears to be locally common within its only known habitats. There is no evidence that it has declined but most populations are rather small and could be at risk if current land use management practices in the area it occupies change.