A Utah native. Finely textured, dark glossy foliage is evergreen; one of the few broad leafed evergreens for our region. Pinkish, bell-shaped flowers appear in early spring, followed by purplish berries in late summer that persist into winter. New wood growth is an attractive reddish purple. Grows 3-6" x 5-6' wide. This is a very good groundcover for somewhat shady areas. There are kinickinnick planted in the Greater Avenues Water Conservation Garden.
Grow in part to full shade, in average to poor, well-drained soils. Slow to established, and it is sensitive to being over-watered. Berries are valued by birds. Plant where it is protected from hot summer sun and drying winter winds. Does not need pruning other than to keep it within the space allotted. A popular western native, there are many cultivars that have been commercial developed, including 'Alaska,' Massachusetts,' 'Point Reyes,' and 'Woods Compact.' Berries are good for birds, but are not recommended for human consumption.