Orchid-like Cr-doped MnO2 nanostructures have been synthesized via a hydrothermal method, using KClO3 as the oxidant. The as-obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Results show that the morphologies of orchid-like MnO2 are made up of nanorods. The influences of chromium in the solution on the morphology of the products are discussed. The electrochemical characterization was carried out by cyclic voltammetry, which indicated that the products were excellent electrode material for super-capacitor. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.