Hierarchical Sn3O4 nanoflowers was synthesized via a hydrothermal route.
The flower-like Sn3O4 was assembled from single-crystalline Sn3O4 nanosheets.
Sn3O4 anode materials for LIBs were investigated for the first time.
Hierarchical Sn3O4 nanoflowers show excellent electrochemical performance.