Hierarchical V2O5 microflowers composed of thin nanosheets have been achieved by a solvothermal reaction first and then a low-temperature calcination. These micro-flowers are characterized by powder X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The nanoscale size and sheet-like structure of the building blocks in V2O5 microflowers make them a promising cathode material for lithium ion batteries. After 1500 cycles at a current density of 1 A g(-1), the reversible capacity of V2O5 microflowers is kept at 104 mAh g(-1). Even at a rate of 2 A g(-1), the reversible capacity is still above 80 mAh g(-1) after 3000 cycles. The excellent electrochemical properties of V2O5 microflowers are associated with their unique structure and capacitive feature. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.