Kinnikinnick is a hardy, evergreen ground cover with trailing stems, small leathery leaves, and soft pinkish-white, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in spring. By late summer, it produces bright red berries that persist into winter, offering food for birds such as grouse, as well as bears, deer, and small mammals. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round texture and seasonal interest in naturalized or ornamental settings.

Though slow to establish, Kinnikinnick eventually forms a dense, low-growing mat ideal for erosion control on slopes, dry meadows, and sandy or rocky soils. It excels in dry, exposed sites and contributes to fire-resistant and drought-tolerant landscapes. Its low water needs and adaptability make it a valuable ground cover in both urban and rural gardens. Foliage is generally avoided by grazers, but berries may be consumed when other food sources are scarce.