Endemic to Bermuda, E. laneanum has a patchy distribution across the main island.

The original habitat of this species, forested valleys and hillsides, has largely been cleared for agriculture.

[1][3] Elaeodendron laneanum is an evergreen tree growing 8–14 m (26–46 ft) tall with a smooth, stout trunk up to 50 cm (20 in) in diameter.

[4] The leaves are glossy above with a toothed margin, light green when young and darkening as they mature.

[3] E. laneanum is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature under criteria B1ab(iii,iv,v), B2ab(iii,iv,v), and C2a(i), based on its limited range and small population.