Iron orthovanadate microrods with layered structure have been synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The composition and structure of the microrods were investigated by X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical measurements indicated that the microrods maintained high capacity when used as lithium ion battery cathode. As-obtained iron orthovanadate microrods electrode exhibits a stable and reversible capacity of over 250 mAh g(-1) at 16 mA g(-1) between 1.6 V and 4.7 V after 15 cycles. Detailed investigations reveal that the layered structure may reduce the lithium ion diffusion path and be helpful for stable capacity. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.