Fordiophyton faberi

A rarely encountered and surprisingly hardy member of the Melastomataceae family (think Tibouchina) from China. A late flowering herbaceous perennial to 40cm high, with distinctive purple-pink flowers in late summer. The foliage is deeply and attractively veined. Best in a semi-shady position, not too dry in summer. Mulch in winter if you are particularly cold, ie inland frost pockets, northern arctic zones etc.