Synthesis of arylated xanthones by site-selective Suzuki–Miyaura reactions of the bis(triflate) of 1,3-dihydroxyxanthone

Arylated xanthones were prepared by site-selective Suzuki–Miyaura reactions of the bis(triflate) of 1,3-dihydroxyxanthone. The first attack occurs at the sterically less encumbered position 3. The site-selectivity is in contrast to the bis(triflate) of 1,3-dihydroxyanthraquinone.