3D flower-like NiO hierarchical architectures have been synthesized by a simple ethanolamine (EA)-mediated self-assembly route and subsequent calcination process. The synthesized beta-Ni(OH)(2) precursors annealed at 300, 400 and 500 degrees C exhibit similar morphology by scanning electron microscopy and different crystallinity, surface area, and pore distribution via x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms. The electrochemical properties indicate that the synthesized NiO hierarchical architectures annealed at 300 degrees C show the best electrochemical performance, which presents a reversible specific capacity of 713 mAh g(-1) at a current density of 100 mA g(-1) after 40 cycles. With varying the rate from 100 to 1000 mA g(-1), the capacity still remains 580 mAh g(-1) at 500 mA g(-1) after 18 cycles and resumes to 470 mAh g(-1) at the same rate after 30 cycles. The above results indicate that the 3D flower-like NiO hierarchical architectures are promising anode materials for lithium ion batteries. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.