Metal–organic framework is a kind of novel electrode materials for lithium ion batteries. Here, a 3D metal–organic framework Co2(OH)2BDC (BDC=1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) was synthesized for the first time by the reaction of Co2+ with a bio-inspired renewable organic ligand 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid through a solvothermal method. As an anode material for lithium ion batteries, this material exhibited an excellent cyclic stability as well as a large reversible capacity of ca. 650mAhg−1 at a current density of 50mAg−1 after 100 cycles within the voltage range of 0.02–3.0V, higher than that of other BDC based anode. The PXRD pattern and the cycleability curves (inset) of Co2(OH)2BDC. Display omitted •Co2(OH)2BDC was synthesized through a one pot solvothermal process.•The solvent had a great effect on the purity of this material.•This material was used as anode material for lithium ion batteries for the first time.•Co2(OH)2BDC showed improved capacity and cycling stability.