Growing cactus outdoors in Canada?  Really?

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Since cactus are normally associated with hot deserts, it comes as a surprise to most gardeners that there are actually four species of cactus that are native to Canada.
Some of these grow almost as far north as the Northwest Territories!  Combined with other species that grow at high mountain altitudes in Colorado and throughout the Americas, cacti provide a wide palette of choices for growing in cold climates. 

Why grow cactus?
Cactus benefits include the practical and the beautiful. On the practical side, they require very minimal care and attention, and very little water. Replacing water guzzling annuals and perennials with cactus and other drought resistant (xeric) plants makes a great deal of sense in areas with low rainfall, drought, or water shortages.
 
As for their beauty, they offer stunning flowers in incandescent shades, interesting textures and forms, and even colourful foliage effects. Adaptable to many garden settings or containers, there is a place for cactus for most of us.