Strobilanthes dyerianus, commonly called Persian shield, is native to Burma (Myanmar). It is a soft-stemmed, tropical, evergreen shrub or subshrub that is grown primarily for its attractive iridescent purple foliage. It grows 3-4' tall in frost-free climates
Very hard to source hence the increased price. 
Sold as small plant, 10cm to 20cm high in 11cm pot.