Uniform submicron BiMn2O5 particles were prepared via a facile one-step hydrothermal route at low temperature. Bi(NO3)(3), MnCl2 center dot 4H(2)O and KMnO4 were used as starting materials; KOH as a pH adjustor and also as a mineralizer. Single-crystalline orthorhombic BiMn2O5 sample with controllable morphology was obtained. The microstructure strongly depends on the molar ratio of the starting materials, KOH concentration and reaction temperature. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows the existence of Mn4+ state. Magnetic measurement indicates Neel temperature T-N at 44 K. The susceptibility above T-N obeys the Curie-Weiss law, x = C/(T-theta), with theta = -350 K. The effective paramagnetic moment mu(eff) = 4.66 mu(B)/Mn, demonstrating the coexistence of mixed Mn3+ and Mn4+ valences. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.