It does not sound like tuberous begonias but rather some of the other types like cane, rex, etc.

Hey, Mike, good to see you over here! I agree that they don't sound like tuberous begonias, especially since we can't grow tuberous begonias here. Actually, I shouldn't say we can't, because maybe some genius greenthumb will prove otherwise, but everyone I've talked to has been unsuccessful--too much heat and humidity. I used to grow them when I lived on the west coast, and that seems to be what they prefer, namely, cool nights, not very hot days, normal winter weather for us. I think you have at least one, probably three, rhizomatous varieties. To look at lots of great pictures, go to the American Begonia Society site. You can look at their Virtual Greenhouse, but I like best the Astro Chapter pictures, partly since they have such a similar climate that I feel if they can grow it I have a better chance. (The Astro Branch is in Houston.) This is great country for begonias, as you are finding, and there are more than you've ever imagined!

"beef eater..." sounds like B. erythrophylla, or "beefsteak" begonia, a rhizo.

-ming

You got it Ming its the 'beefsteak'. Indeed very 'meaty' like leaves. Its my oldest begonia at about 5 years old. I have a massive potted plant of 'beaf steak' that stays indoors (read my wife's plant here ;o) I also have a piece of it planted outdoors along with the other two ... what I now know to be rhiz. begs. All of these are grown for the leaves not the flowers.
Thanks for the leads all.
Mike

hi mike,

as to your other two plants...could be anything! you might want to browse the picture archives at the houston begonia society page if you ever have a lot of spare time.

-ming

Here is a link that might be useful: houston branch.