Certain crops can be grown in the shade and not in a clear-cut field with full sun. If you are growing the plant for the leaves, stems or buds, they grow well in the shade. Shade-grown crops mature slowly have a more intense flavor, and they include salad greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Swiss chard, and coffee beans. This type of practice also is environmentally friendly as it supports biodiversity and creates less need for fertilizers. These shade grown areas are also small ecosystems that act as an oasis for migratory birds.

References:

http://organicgardening.about.com/od/vegetablesherbs/a/shadeveggies.htm

http://www.organic-nature-news.com/organic_definitions.html

http://www.groundsforchange.com/learn/shadegrown.php