Commentary Par XXII 48

Francesco da Buti (DDP Buti.Par.XXII.37-51) resolves the metaphoric fiori (flowers) and frutti (fruits) into 'words' and 'deeds.'  It seems at least possible, given Benedict's own division of monkish occupation into prayer and work, that this is how we should interpret the 'flowers' that Dante has in mind: the words that give shape to prayer.