Crossword Genius

Parrot to stretch out need for flower (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lilac

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

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lilac that I've seen before include "Plant" , "Tree - pinkish-purple colour" , "Shade" , "Mauve-like colour" , "Flowering tree of the olive family" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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