Cold isn't the problem. Wet is the problem. It does get cold in this species' native region. It is an arid cold though, as precipitation is primarily snow, not rain. Wet winters with a lot of non-snow precip has been something of an issue for some of the western species around here, from what I've heard from some people who have large collected trees. Humid summers are also a contributing factor to declining health over the years from people I've talked with, who have experienced fungal or root problems. It's not a deal killer, but the conditions east of the Mississippi aren't the optimal for high altitude, drier weather species. There is a reason that western conifers like utah juniper, ponderosa pine, California junipers, etc. don't grow past there.
That said, there are more than a few owners that have success with them.