A hydroxyapatite-biochar nanocomposite (HAP-BC) was successfully fabricated and its physicochemical properties characterized. The analyses showed that HAP nanoparticles were successfully loaded on the biochar surface. The adsorption of Pb(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) by HAP-BC was systematically studied in single and ternary metal systems. The results demonstrated that pH affects the adsorption of heavy metals onto HAP-BC. Regarding the adsorption kinetics, the pseudo-second-order model showed the best fit for all three heavy metal ions on HAP-BC. In both single and ternary metal ion systems, the adsorption isotherm of Pb(II) by HAP-BC followed Langmuir model, while those of Cu(II) and Zn(II) fitted well with Freundlich model. The maximum adsorption capacity for each tested metal by HAP-BC was higher than that of pristine rice straw biochar (especially for Pb(II)) or those of other reported adsorbents. Therefore, HAP-BC could explore as a new material for future application in heavy metal removal. A novel hydroxyapatite-biochar nanocomposite was synthesized and used for Pb(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) removal in solutions. Display omitted •A novel hydroxyapatite-biochar nanocomposite (HAP-BC) was synthesized.•The HAP-BC was tested for the adsorption of Pb(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II).•The HAP-BC showed enhanced sorption of Pb(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II).•The adsorbed HAP-BC can be effectively regenerated by using HCl solution.•The HAP-BC can be used to remove heavy metals from wastewater.