Cauliflower-like, nanobelt-shaped and feather-like CuO nanocrystallines were synthesized by the chemical deposition method. The microstructure and morphology of CuO were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive spectrum (EDS) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Results showed that the morphology of CuO was affected by property of alkali added into system. The probable mechanisms of the formation of CuO with different morphologies were discussed. The electrochemical properties of CuO as electrode material were enhanced by the improving of morphology. Cauliflower-like CuO exhibited a higher specific capacitance (116.9 F g(-1)) than nanobelt-shaped and feather-like CuO, and also showed good reversibility. Specific capacitance of cauliflower-like CuO (115.3 F g(-1)) was 343.5% higher than CuO bought (26 F g(-1)) at 5 mA cm(-2). (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.