A novel N–O ligand for palladium-catalyzed Mizoroki–Heck reaction in neat water

1-(Morpholin-1-yl-pyridin-2-yl-methyl)-2-naphthol as a novel efficient N–O ligand has been developed for palladium-catalyzed Mizoroki–Heck reaction in neat water without the protection of an inert atmosphere. The reactions proceed smoothly and give the desired products in moderate to excellent yields. The catalyst system is reusable.