Pd (OAc) 2 in combination with P (t-Bu) 3 catalyzes the coupling of β-methallyl alcohol with 1- bromo-3, 4-(methylenedioxy) benzene (1a), 1-bromo-4-methoxybenzene (1b), or 1-bromo-4- tert-butylbenzene (1c). The reaction affords the corresponding 2-methyl-3-aryl-propanals, which are valuable floral fragrances. With 1a or 1b high reaction rates are obtained at 130° C using NMP/water mixtures and an inorganic base such as Na2CO3. The ...