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Shape and size control of gold (Au) nanocrystals plays important roles in their catalytic and optical properties. Hierarchical Au nanodendrites were directly electrodeposited on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) using l-arginine as a growth-directing agent, while there is no seed, template, or surfactant involved. It was found that the experimental conditions such as the applied potentials, concentrations of HAuCl and l-arginine, and deposition time were essential to the final morphology of the Au deposits. The as-synthesized Au nanocrystals displayed enhanced electrocatalytic activity and improved stability for ethylene glycol (EG) oxidation in acidic media as compared to Au nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]