Elaeocarpus inopinatus is known only from
Marai Parai, a plateau on the northwestern side of
Mount Kinabalu. It grows in scrubby forest over
ultramafic rock between elevation. The species' estimated
area of occupancy (AOO) and
extent of occurrence (EOO) are both . The species' habitat is protected in
Kinabalu Park, and its habitat and population are not declining. Its limited range makes the species
vulnerable to hazards like fire, drought, and landslide. ==References==