La-Mg-Ni-based hydrogen storage alloys are a promising candidate for the negative electrode materials of nickel metal hydride batteries. However, their fast capacity degradation hinders them from more extensive application. In this study, the electrochemical performance and capacity degradation mechanism of single-phase La2MgNi9, La3MgNi14 and La4MgNi19 alloys are studied from the perspective of their constituent subunits. It is found that the rate capability and cycling stability of the alloy electrodes increase with higher [LaNi5]/[LaMgNi4] subunit ratio, while the discharge capacity shows a reverse trend. Degradation study shows that the inter-molecular strains in the alloys are the main reason that leads to the fast capacity degradation of La-Mg-Ni-based alloys. The strains are caused by the difference in the expansion/contraction properties between [LaNi5] and [LaMgNi4] subunits during charge/discharge which is mainly observed in the H-dissolved solid solution instead of hydride. It is also found that the strains can be relieved by adjusting [LaNi5]/[LaMgNi4] subunit ratio of the alloys, thus achieving less pulverization and oxidation, and better cycling stability. We expect our findings can inspire new thoughts on improving the electrochemical performance of La-Mg-Ni-based alloys by tuning their superlattice structures. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.