Hierarchical Sb2S3/C composite nanorods are synthesized successfully by a novel l-cysteine-assisted solvothermal treatment. The as-synthesized Sb2S3/C composite is found to display a high reversible specific capacity of 1084mAhg−1 at a current density of 100mAg−1, a good cyclability of 960mAhg−1 at a current density of 100mAg−1 after 30 cycles, and a superior rate capability of 1019mAhg−1 at a current density of 4000mAg−1 when evaluated as an electrode candidate material for lithium-ion batteries.