The often nearly erect stipes (central stalks) of Cheilanthes hastata fronds grow directly from the rootstock. The stipe starts off green in new growth but soon becomes dark coloured and smooth.

The leaflets spaced along the stipe may be unlobed and ovoid or lobed halfway between base and tip, slightly asymmetrical. The green leaflets grow opposite or subopposite on the stipes. The specific name, hastata, is derived from the Latin word hasta meaning spear, referring to the spear-shaped leaflets.

The sporangia or spore-bearing organs are present at the ends of the veins, under the leaflet margins that curl over them (Curtis-Scott, et al, 2020; iNaturalist; Wikipedia).