My favorite plant, depicted in my avitar, is Tibouchina urvelliana.
Unfortunately, for me, it is not hardy in zone 8b; but its close relative, Tibouchina grandiflora grows nicely. I still grow Tibouchina urvelliana as an indoor/outdoor plant. Due to physical limitations, I find it very difficult to take photographs. It stays outside all year and only comes inside when temperatures drop below 25F; which only happens 10 or 15 days most Winters.
