If you haven't tried cutting Hellebores, three things are worth remembering:
First is that they often wilt within a very short time - even in water, so you've only got a few hours of life from them (important if you want to study them). Second, they are poisonous, particularly the roots, but any prolonged skin contact may cause burning. Third and last, Pliny states before digging up a plant you must first face east and implore the gods for permission, as they are a magical root guarded by birds..!
...from my seasonal colour sample notebook.
