One-dimensional ZnSb nanorods with the diameter of 20 nm have been synthesized by one-step surfactant-assisted solvothermal method. The ZnSb nanorods have single-crystalline structure with a growth direction of [001]. The experimental results indicate that the final morphologies of ZnSb nanostructures can be controlled by the surfactant. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.