What does the cryptic crossword clue "Grows swans by river (7)" mean?

The definition is "Grows". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). DEE (synonym="river") + PENS (synonym="female swans") = DEEPENS; definition: "Grows" The answer is DEEPENS.

Grows swans by river (7)

Guardian Cryptic #28974 | 11 Across | 2023-01-23 flower

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