Like other early Chu rulers, Fenmao held the hereditary noble rank of viscount that was first granted to his ancestor Xiong Yi by King Cheng of Zhou.[1] However, Han Feizi and Chu Ci referred to him as King Li of Chu (楚厲王).[2]
Fenmao succeeded his father Xiao'ao, who died in 758 BC. He was succeeded by King Wu of Chu, the first Chu ruler to declare himself king.[1]