Where does a normal nail plate grow from?

The normal nail plate grows from the matrix. The matrix is the tissue located under the base of the nail, beneath the cuticle, and it's responsible for producing the cells that make up the nail plate. As new cells are formed in the matrix, they push old cells out, leading to the growth of the nail plate. This process is essential for healthy nail development and contributes to the growth rate and overall appearance of the nails.

The other options refer to different components related to nails but do not produce the nail plate itself. The cuticle serves to protect the area between the skin and the nail from infection but does not contribute to nail growth. The lunula is the visible part of the matrix at the base of the nail and is not the source of growth; instead, it is just part of the nail anatomy. The hyponychium is the skin underneath the free edge of the nail, providing a protective barrier but also does not play a role in nail production. Thus, understanding the role of the matrix is crucial for comprehending nail growth.