The poppy originated in West Asia, but it has been cultivated in Europe since the Neolithic era; it is probably one of the earliest plants cultivated
by people in that region. The genus name Papaver was the Latin name of the plant and lives today in several Romance languages and in English poppy; its origin
is not known. The species name somniferum (Latin somnus sleep and ferre bring) refers to the narcotic properties of opium, as does Spanish adormidera
(cf. Latin dormire to sleep).

The hills around Doi Angkhang used to be used exclusively for poppy cultivation to support the heroin trade in the Golden Triangle. The Royal Projects
have transformed the area and now the hilltribes grow cash crops instead. These poppies are in the ornamental gardens of the Doi Angkhang Royal Project.