Compare plant on rocks to some ears? (5)

I believe the answer is:

liken

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'compare' is the definition.
(I know that compare can be written as liken)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for liken that I've seen before include "Equate" , "Compare" , "Represent as similar" , "Point out the resemblance (to)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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