I've had Tibouchina granulosa and T. urvilleana in my garden for the last 15 years(I am located in Greenville,SC). They act as returning perennials here, so they will never reach their full potential in our zone. Here are a few pics of them in my garden.

Tibouchina granulosa.
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Here's a distance shot of the whole plant. It's to the left of the Windmill Palm.
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Here's a picture of Tibouchina urvilleana just beginning to bloom. Both species bloom here in late summer until frost.
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Good Luck!

Thanks for the quick response. Impressive. I'm in Elizabeth City, NC. I purchased this specimen at a local high school unlabeled. There were 4 stalks in the 6inch pot with the tallest being almost two feet tall. The horticulture teacher informed me that he had his students root a few branches, so now I have 4. I have placed two of them in full sun (don't have shade available). I am giving the other two to a friend who does have some dappled areas. What should I advise her regarding placement ( she does have a choice). It appears yours is somewhat sheltered. Thanks again for your photos--that took your time- I'm very appreciative.

They will grow/bloom much better in full sun. I also forgot to mention that they should be mulched heavily in late fall to prevent the remaining stems and root zone from freezing during the winter (I use oak leaves topped with pine needles). You should have good luck with them since you're in a milder coastal climate.