Crossword Genius

Conservative treasure split (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

clove

'split' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'conservative treasure' is the wordplay.
'conservative' becomes 'C' (UK political abbreviation).
'treasure' becomes 'love' (I've seen this in another clue).
'c'+'love'='CLOVE'

(Other definitions for clove that I've seen before include "Cut" , "Pungent spice" , "Spice, used whole or ground" , "Aromatic bud" , "Dried flower bud spice" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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