We describe a simple and inexpensive method to prepare alpha-Fe2O3 nanorods films on glass slides fabricated via a simple hydrothermal procedure at 120 degrees C. Such films exhibit a hierarchical microtexture, and after the surface modification, they show extraordinary superhydrophobicity and the controllable water adhesion. Such superhydrophobic surfaces of the ferric oxides imply wide industrial applications. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.