This is an Exacum affine (Persian's Violet). It is one of the interesting low compact indoor plants that I perpetually love.
I understand my colleague grew this from seeds. His patience really paid off. I collected lots of the seeds before and managed to germinate them. But I hate growing seedlings because they are so delicate that I always end up killing them instead.
Anyway, this is definitely a house plant that can be grown at home. Pinching it frequently would create a more bushy plant. There seems to be a white flower variety that I have yet to see in our local market.
This photo was taken on 18 Dec 09 and the potted plant is currently on display outside HortPark's Lifestyle Corner.