A new tetraphosphine, the cis,cis, cis-1,2,3,4-tetrakis (diphenylphosphinomethyl)cyclopentane (Tedicyp), in combination with [Pd(C3H5)Cl](2) affords a very efficient catalyst for allylic amination. A turnover number of 980 000 can be obtained for the addition of dipropylamine to allyl acetate in the presence of this catalyst. This complex is very stable and the reactions can be performed in water without loss of activity. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.